Should cooked bacon be held at room temperature?

Cooked bacon should not be held at room temperature. The correct understanding is that cooked bacon, like many other perishable food items, needs to be stored at a safe temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. If left at room temperature for more than two hours, the risk of foodborne illness increases significantly.

In food safety practices, it is recommended to keep cooked bacon warm (above 140°F) if it is going to be served or used shortly thereafter, or to store it in the refrigerator at temperatures below 40°F if it is to be held for a longer period. Proper food handling and temperature control are essential in maintaining food safety in any food service environment, including fast-food settings like Chick-fil-A.