Food Safety Issues/thawing meat

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Question
My GF, purposely, left 2.5 lbs of frozen ground meat on the counter over night ( 8.5 hrs. ) and said she saw no problem in using it and serving ( including to several small kids ) since she was cooking it through....it felt cold and did not look brown, etc...i have a problem with this and have read 2 hrs, is a good limit or make sure it is not over 40 ( we do not have a meat therm ) so i said pitch it, she acquiesced but called all her friends who sided with her....help

Answer
Jerry,
Never thaw meat on the counter. You may use refrigerator, cold running water,or microwave if you cook right away. The middle of the meat may have been ok, but the outside was definatley no longer 41 degrees or below. Hope no one got sick...Lynn

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Lynn Schottke

Expertise

I can answer most questions about food safety and sanitation. I can answer some questions reguarding nutrition. I can help you out with recipes and proper cooking methods. I can even help out with event planning.

Experience

I am a professional managing cook with over 4 years of experience. I currently cook for the elderly. Food safety is most important as they are a very highly succeptable population.

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Our company news letter.

Education/Credentials
I am a certified Person In Charge and certified by the State of Ohio Board of Health in food safety and sanitation (Serv-Safe)

Past/Present Clients
I have 56 residents with Alzheimers.

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