Defrosting Do’s and Don’ts

Defrosting do’s

• Defrost food in the refrigerator. This is the safest method for all foods
• Short on time? Thaw meat and poultry in airtight packaging in cold water if it is going to be used immediately. Change the water every 30 minutes, so the food continues to thaw in cold water
• Defrost food in the microwave only if you are going to cook it immediately

Defrosting don’ts

• Never defrost food at room temperature. Food left out at room temperature longer than two hours may enter the Danger Zone, exhibiting unsafe temperatures between 41° F and 140° F. Bacteria can multiply rapidly between 41° F and 140°F.
• Do not defrost food in hot water.