Cream cheese, like Kraft Philadelphia cream cheese, is a perishable dairy product and should generally be refrigerated to maintain its freshness and safety. Leaving it at room temperature for extended periods can allow the growth of harmful bacteria, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines, perishable foods, including cream cheese, should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. Bacteria can multiply rapidly within this time frame, especially in the temperature danger zone of 40°F to 140°F (4°C to 60°C).
To ensure the safety and quality of the cream cheese, it is advisable to store it in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) after purchase or use. Additionally, if the cream cheese has been sitting at room temperature for more than two hours, it's recommended to discard it to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.