A Thawing Food Timely Reminder.

With Thanksgiving approaching, Tarrant County Public Health is reminding residents that preparing a safe holiday meal starts long before the food reaches the oven.

Leaving frozen meat or other perishable foods on the kitchen counter may seem convenient, but it can let harmful bacteria multiply as the outside warms while the inside remains frozen.

Health officials recommend three safe ways to thaw food: in the refrigerator, under cold running water, or in the microwave. Refrigeration takes the longest but keeps food at a safe temperature throughout.

Residents should avoid thawing food in hot water or leaving perishable items at room temperature for more than two hours. Cook food thawed in cold water or the microwave promptly.

It’s a simple precaution worth remembering as Benbrook families prepare for Thanksgiving gatherings. After all, nobody wants food poisoning on the holiday menu.