When you order Factor Meals, a convenient, nutritious meal delivery service, you may wonder how long these meals can safely stay in their box if you’re not home right when they arrive. Whether you’re running late or get caught up with something, it’s essential to understand how to handle your meals to ensure they stay safe to eat.
In this blog, we’ll explain how long Factor Meals can stay outside the box, what factors impact their safety, and the best practices for storing them once they arrive.
The Key to Safe Meal Storage: Temperature Control
The most significant factor to consider when it comes to how long Factor Meals can stay in the box outside is temperature. Factor Meals are carefully packaged with ice packs that help keep the food excellent and safe until you can get to it. As with any perishable food, the goal is to keep the meals at a safe temperature until you can refrigerate or freeze them.
The general guideline is that perishable foods should not be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. However, there are a few things to consider when determining how long your Factor Meals will stay at a safe temperature.
How Factor Meals Are Packaged
Factor Meals are designed to be insulated and include gel ice packs to maintain the proper temperature during transit. The packaging helps extend the time it takes for your meal to reach an unsafe temperature. Here’s what happens when the meal arrives:
- Insulation: Factor Meals uses insulated boxes to keep the contents cool and safe during shipping. The insulation helps prevent temperature fluctuations.
- Gel Ice Packs: Meals are packed with gel ice packs, which maintain a safe temperature for several hours after delivery. Depending on the ambient temperature and how long it takes for you to retrieve the box, the ice packs may still be cold enough to keep your meals safe.
How Long Can Factor Meals Stay Outside?
- Ideal Conditions: On average, Factor Meals can stay outside the box safely for up to 4-6 hours, depending on weather conditions, mainly if the ice packs are still cold and the ambient temperature is cool. If it’s more excellent outside (e.g., during the fall or winter months), your meals may stay safe a little longer.
- Warm Weather: If it’s warm or hot outside (above 75°F/24°C), the ice packs in the box may begin to thaw more quickly. During this time, it’s best to retrieve your meals within 2-3 hours. Hot weather accelerates bacterial growth, so it’s important to prioritize getting your meals inside the fridge as soon as possible.
- Cold Weather: On the other hand, if the weather is chilly (below 50°F/10°C), your Factor Meals may remain safe outside for a little longer. However, we always recommend bringing them inside and refrigerating them as soon as possible to prevent any risks.
Signs Your Meals May Not Be Safe
If you are unsure whether your meals are still safe to eat, here are a few signs to look out for:
- Melted Ice Packs: If the ice packs in the box are fully melted and the contents of the box are warm, it’s a sign that the meals may have been at an unsafe temperature for too long.
- Soggy Packaging: If the outer packaging is damp, it’s a good indication that the meals have warmed up too much and may not be safe.
- Off-Smell: If you open a meal and notice any unusual or sour odors, it’s best to discard it. This can be a sign that the food has spoiled.
Best Practices for Storing Factor Meals After Delivery
To ensure your meals stay fresh and safe to eat, here are some tips for handling them after they arrive:
- Check the Temperature: As soon as your Factor Meals arrive, check the temperature of the food inside. If the ice packs are still cold and the meals are cool to the touch, your meals should be safe. If they are warm or the ice packs have melted, place them in the fridge or freezer immediately.
- Refrigerate or Freeze Right Away: Factor Meals should be placed in the refrigerator or freezer right after you get them. If you plan on eating the meals within the week, store them in the fridge. If you won’t be able to eat them within the recommended timeframe, place them in the freezer to extend their shelf life.
- Use the Meals Within the Recommended Timeframe: Factor Meals have a best-by date, typically within 5-7 days of delivery when kept in the refrigerator. Be sure to consume the meals within this timeframe for the best quality and safety.
- Track Deliveries: If you know you won’t be home when your Factor Meals arrive, try to arrange for someone else to retrieve them or schedule a delivery time when you can be home. Some customers also use delivery alerts to monitor their packages closely.
What to Do If Your Factor Meals Have Been Left Out Too Long
If your Factor Meals have been left outside for too long and you’re unsure if they are still safe, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Don’t risk foodborne illness by consuming meals that have been left at unsafe temperatures for too long. If you’re in doubt, contact Factor’s customer service for guidance.
Conclusion: Safe Meal Handling Is Key to Enjoyment
Factor Meals are a convenient and healthy option, but proper handling is critical to ensuring you enjoy your meals at their best and safest. While they can typically stay in the box for several hours after delivery—thanks to the insulated packaging and ice packs—it’s essential to bring them inside and refrigerate them as soon as possible to maintain food safety.