Can I thaw meat or poutlry on the kitchen counter?

Nancy Murphy

NO. The safest way to thaw meat or poultry is to take it out of the freezer and leave it overnight in the refrigerator. Normally , it will be thawed and ready to use the next day. For faster thawing, put the frozen package in a watertight plastic bag under cold water. Change the water every 15 - 20 minutes to maintain the cold temperature. You may also thaw meat and poultry in the microwave oven. Follow the manufacturer's directions.