It's essential to be cautious when consuming any food or beverage that has been left out of the refrigerator for an extended period, especially if it contains perishable ingredients like fruit juice.
In the case of an unopened bottle of Ribena that has been left out of the fridge for a few days, the risk of bacterial growth and spoilage is lower compared to if it had been opened. The packaging should act as a protective barrier.
However, it's important to consider the temperature conditions during those days. If your home was extremely hot or the bottle was exposed to direct sunlight, it may affect the quality and safety of the product.
To assess whether the Ribena is still safe to drink, check for any visible signs of spoilage, such as mold, odd odors, or unusual texture. If you notice any of these signs, it's best to discard the drink.
If everything looks and smells fine, you can refrigerate the Ribena for a few minutes before consuming it if you prefer to drink it chilled. Remember that refrigeration won't eliminate any potential issues that may have arisen during the time it was left out.
When in doubt about the safety of a food or beverage, it's always better to err on the side of caution and dispose of it. It's not worth risking potential foodborne illnesses.