The quickest and safest way to defrost food
Researchers in Sweden have discovered the quickest, safest way to reliably defrost meat and fish (and it’s probably not the method you’ve been using).
Susanne Ekstedt, who works for the food and bioscience unit of the SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden, believes the best way to thaw frozen meat and fish is by placing it in a bowl of cold water. Ekstedt told the European Journal Science Nordic, “This is something food scientists have known to be true for a long time now. This knowledge is mostly confined to the food industry. Most people don't seem to be aware of this.”
Ekstedt recommends putting the frozen meat or fish in a freezer bag (to keep the water out) before placing in a bowl of cold water. Because water conducts heat more effectively than air, the warming process is hastened. And putting the bag in cold water also reduces the likelihood of bacteria growing during the defrosting process.
Nordic researchers have come out in support of Ekstedt’s recommendations, with professor Bjørg Egelandsdal from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences suggesting it’s far more effective than putting the meat in the fridge, “There has never been any good scientific evidence behind the advice that food should be thawed in the refrigerator.”
Per Einar Granum, a microbiologist who also works at the Norwegian University of Life Science, said Ekstedt’s method is superior to microwaving, arguing that even if you use the “defrost” program, it is “a little too brutal for the meat.”
How do you defrost meat? Do you think you’re going to change your method, based on this research? Share your thoughts in the comments section.
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