09/24/2026
Our next Food Safety Month tip: safe thawing methods ❄️
Ever wondered how to safely thaw frozen meat for a meal? Here are three USDA‑approved methods:
-In the microwave: Meat thawed in the microwave should be cooked immediately after thawing. It must be fully cooked before refreezing.
-In the refrigerator: Meat can be safely thawed in the refrigerator, allowing about 24 hours per 5 pounds. Ground meat, stew meat, poultry, and seafood remain safe for an additional day before cooking. Beef, pork and lamb roasts, chops and steaks remain safe for 3 to 5 additional days. Food thawed in the refrigerator can be refrozen without cooking.
-In cold water: Our vacuum‑packaged meat can be thawed by submerging it in cold tap water, changing the water every 30 minutes. Packages around 1 pound may thaw in about 1 hour, while 3 to 4 pound packages may take 2 to 3 hours.
Follow along for more Food Safety Month tips, and visit us in Thomas or Clinton to shop our selection of beef, pork and chicken!
Information obtained from the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service