Food Safety for Seniors: Thawing Food Safely

1. Food Safety for Seniors:Thawing Food Safely ___________ County Cooperative Extension Service Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

2. Why worry about thawing? • Bacteria grow quickly at warm temperatures (40oF to 140oF) • Some increase in number • Some produce a toxin • May cause illness if the food is eaten Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

3. The Danger Zone • 40oF to 140oF • Less than two hours • Cumulative • Thawing at room temperature goes way beyond the safe time Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

4. Best way to thaw: refrigerator • Remember to take food from freezer in time • Write self notes • Also gives best quality food Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

5. Thawing safely:microwave oven • Follow manufacturer’s directions • Cook immediately when thawed • Drawback: may be partially cooked during thawing Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

6. Thawing safely:cook from frozen state • Shape, cut or trim meat as it will be cooked • Cook the meat without thawing • Drawbacks: • Takes longer to cook • Less juicy meat Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

7. Thawing safely:under cold water • Put meat in water proof container • Fill sink with cold water • Change water every 30 minutes • Remove food as soon as thawed Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

8. Summary • The refrigerator is the best way to thaw frozen food. • Microwave thawing is safe if directions are followed Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

9. Summary • Cold water changed every 30 minute can be used • Cook directly from the freezer Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service

10. Stay healthy by thawing food safely. Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service