How to thaw food safely
The safe ways to thaw food, according to official food-safety agencies. Last verified: October 1, 2026.
United States
There are three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave.
Check the water frequently to be sure it stays cold. Change the water every 30 minutes. After thawing, cook immediately.
When microwave-defrosting food, plan to cook it immediately after thawing because some areas of the food may become warm and begin to cook during microwaving.
Never thaw foods in a garage, basement, car, dishwasher or plastic garbage bag; out on the kitchen counter, outdoors or on the porch. These methods can leave your foods unsafe to eat.
It is safe to cook foods from the frozen state. The cooking will take approximately 50% longer than the recommended time for fully thawed or fresh meat and poultry.
United Kingdom
You should defrost your food in the fridge so that it doesn’t get too warm
It’s also important to use food within 24 hours after it’s been fully defrosted
If this isn’t possible, use a microwave on the defrost setting directly before cooking.