Kitchen experts have warned that some common habits and “tricks” for defrosting food could actually be more of a recipe for food poisoning
As Christmas cooks start firing up their ovens, others may be just beginning to defrost their festive fare. But people are being warned by kitchen pros over widespread defrosting habits and “tricks” that could inadvertently set the stage for food poisoning.
Bacteria like listeria and salmonella, that cause food poisoning, can survive months in the freezer and perish when zapped with proper heat, typically above 65 degrees Celsius. However, Plumbworld specialists highlighted that the “danger zone” sits at around 5 degrees to 60 degrees Celsius as this can allow the bacteria to develop and multiply if the food is left uncooked long enough.
Because of this, one of the most common defrosting methods, leaving frozen food on counters at room temperature, could actually be the most dangerous. The experts noted this creates a prime breeding ground for the bacteria, particularly in meat and dairy dishes.
Refreezing partially defrosted raw food or leftovers can also heighten contamination risks due to bacteria multiplying during thawing, a process that will only accelerate when it’s defrosted again. To ensure a safe Christmas feast and preserve leftovers, the experts suggest defrosting frozen foods in the fridge.
Though it’s slower than leaving it at room temperature, it keeps temperatures low enough to stave off bacterial growth. An alternative is sealing food in bags and immersing it in cold water, changing the water approximately every 30 minutes to retain a safe temperature; this technique thaws food faster than fridge defrosting.
For small, even cuts of food, a microwave could be used for defrosting, but the experts urged: “Many people opt for the convenience of microwaves to quickly defrost large portions of food, but uneven heating can leave frozen pockets that harbour bacteria.
“Be sure to cook it immediately after thawing to kill any bacteria that may have begun to grow.” The specialists concluded: “Improper defrosting isn’t just a minor mistake—it’s a health risk that could turn your joyous holiday meals into a nightmare.”
