United States Virgin Islands 
Department of Health 
Division of Environmental Health 
https://doh.vi.gov/programs/environmental-health 
 
How To Properly Thaw Food 
Improper thawing can put your food in risk of the temperature danger zone. Follow these approved methods. 
In a refrigerator 
Thaw food in a refrigerator at 41˚  F or     
lower to keep dangerous microorganisms 
from growing. 
Under running water 
Thaw food submerged under running water 
at a temperature of 70˚F or lower. The    
water flow must be strong enough to wash 
food particles into the overflow drain.  
In a microwave oven followed by 
immediate cooking 
As part of the cooking       
process