Leaving cooked food in an Instant Pot with the "keep warm" setting on for an extended period, such as several days, can increase the risk of food spoilage. While the "keep warm" setting is designed to maintain a safe temperature range to prevent bacterial growth, it may not be effective in preserving food quality and safety over an extended duration.
According to general food safety guidelines, perishable food should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. The "keep warm" setting on an Instant Pot typically maintains a temperature of around 140-160°F (60-71°C), which is within the danger zone (40-140°F or 4-60°C) where bacteria can multiply rapidly.
Even though the food may not necessarily spoil immediately, the prolonged exposure to the warm environment increases the likelihood of bacterial growth, which can lead to foodborne illnesses. To ensure food safety, it's generally recommended to refrigerate or properly store cooked food within two hours of cooking to slow down bacterial growth and extend its shelf life.
If you accidentally left the food in the Instant Pot with the "keep warm" setting on for an extended period, it's best to discard the food to prevent any potential health risks. It's always better to prioritize food safety and avoid consuming food that may have been compromised.