How to Defrost Meat: Expert Advice on the Correct Method, Even When You’re Short on Time

The best way to defrost meat is to place it, still in its packaging, on a plate on the bottom shelf of the fridge. But what should you do if you forget to take the meat out of the freezer on time? Leaving it to thaw at room temperature is not the solution. Our biologist and nutritionist Simone Gabrielli explains why, and how to do it the right way.

Do you know how to defrost meat correctly? If you forget to take the meat out of the freezer on time, leaving it to thaw at room temperature is not the solution. In fact, it’s important to maintain the cold chain, as the freezer stops bacterial growth but doesn’t eliminate it. Therefore, the ideal method is to place frozen meat—and food in general—on the bottom shelf of the fridge, the coldest part, and allow it to thaw naturally.

However, if you’re short on time, you can follow the advice of our biologist and nutritionist Simone Gabrielli: all you need is a bowl and a sealed plastic bag, or alternatively, an appliance with a defrost function.

Why It’s Important to Maintain the Cold Chain

Maintaining the cold chain and defrosting meat properly is essential to prevent bacterial growth, which can alter the texture, color, smell, and taste of food, or even cause foodborne illnesses if pathogenic microorganisms are present.

The best way to defrost food is to place it in its packaging on a plate in the bottom shelf of the fridge. Why? Freezer temperatures don’t kill bacteria, they simply stop them from growing. However, when we leave meat at room temperature, bacteria begin to proliferate. On the other hand, fridge temperatures slow down bacterial growth, making it harder for bacteria to multiply.

How to Defrost Meat When You’re in a Hurry

Depending on the type of meat and especially its size, you can place it in a sealed plastic bag, trying to remove as much air as possible, and thaw it by running cold water over the bag, keeping it submerged in a bowl.

Hot water, on the other hand, creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth, so any type of meat placed in hot water will become a perfect breeding ground for bacteria.

Alternatively, many modern appliances, such as some microwaves, have a defrost setting that helps thaw food. Be sure to use the correct setting, as using the wrong one could accidentally start cooking the meat.

Can You Cook Meat Straight from Frozen?