What is the correct guideline for defrosting meat in a refrigerator?

What is the correct guideline for defrosting meat in a refrigerator?

• A. 8 hours per 5 pounds
• B. 12 hours per 5 pounds
• C. 24 hours for every 5 pounds
• D. 48 hours per 10 pounds

Answer: (C)

Safe defrosting in the fridge relies on thawing at a steady, low temperature so bacteria don’t have a chance to grow. The standard rule is about 24 hours for every five pounds of meat. This pacing keeps the meat at or below 40°F and allows it to thaw evenly from outside to inside. So, the guideline that states 24 hours for every five pounds matches this widely used recommendation. Smaller pieces thaw more quickly, while larger cuts need proportionally more time, which is why other timings can be too fast for bigger portions.

Safe defrosting in the fridge relies on thawing at a steady, low temperature so bacteria don’t have a chance to grow. The standard rule is about 24 hours for every five pounds of meat. This pacing keeps the meat at or below 40°F and allows it to thaw evenly from outside to inside. So, the guideline that states 24 hours for every five pounds matches this widely used recommendation. Smaller pieces thaw more quickly, while larger cuts need proportionally more time, which is why other timings can be too fast for bigger portions.