Prior to opening, store at room temperature; if you refrigerate the unopened jar we recommend you maintain refrigeration. Once opened, restore in refrigerator at normal refrigerator temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to maintain fresh quality and best flavor. MIRACLE WHIP can be left out of the refrigerator while serving a meal for 1 to 2 hours. Once on a sandwich, it should be consumed within 2-3 hours. We recommend if carrying a lunch, do so in an insulated bag with a reusable ice pack.