Expert: Chris Manley - 12/11/2008

Question
I removed a vacuum packed bag of venison berger and thawed on the counter. The bag was forgotten out and not put back into fridge until 0530 today. This bag was packed in Nov 08, frozen then removed at 1700 last night. It was a little colder then room tempature when it was put back into the frige. Is this meat still good? the vacuum seal is still sealed.

Answer
It's difficult to determine without knowing exactly how long the food was warmer than 41 degrees. Based on the time the food was removed from the freezer, and when it was discovered on the counter, it is possible that the meat was not allowed to rise above 41 degrees for more than 4 hours.   

If used, this product should be cooked completely, to an internal temperature of 155 degrees or greater.