Expert: Chris Manley - 4/15/2008

Question
i left a steak to thaw in the sink over night (12 hrs) if i cooked it in the morning is it ok or is there risk of food piosoning?

Answer
You should not allow food to thaw at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.  If the steak has been above 41 degrees for more than 4 hours than there is a risk of foodborne illness, though if the steak is thoroughly cooked when used the risk is very low.