What Is The Maximum Water Temperature Allowed When Thawing Food Under Running Water. Perishable foods should never be thawed on the counter, or in hot water and must not be left at room temperature for more than two hours. The water flow must be strong enough to wash food particles into the overflow drain.

If you must use this method, use a clean and sanitised sink that is large enough to allow the food item to be completely covered by water. Defrosting food under cold running water is the least recommended method of defrosting as it can be easy for the food item to reach temperatures within the temperature danger zone. So temperature/safety wise you will be fine thawing with water.