What Method Is Appropriate For Thawing Food. The refrigerator, cold water, and the microwave are all safe methods to defrost food. Perishable foods should never be left out on the counter or in hot water to thaw, and they should never be kept out at room temperature for more than two hours.

The usda only officially recommends three methods to safely thaw food: Using this method, frozen foodstuffs can be thawed rapidly in the temperature range −3 to 3 °c. In a refrigerator, under cold running water, in a microwave, or as part of the cooking process.