Freezing food is a great way to preserve large quantities of perishable foods like meat and bread, as well as leftovers. Not only is does it allow you to extend the lifespan of certain foods, but it also allows for increased convenience. Before pulling your next meal out of the freezer, it’s important that you know how to properly thaw and defrost food to reduce the chances of harmful bacteria multiplying while in the “temperature danger zone”, where germs thrive, doubling in numbers in just 20 minutes. Remember to never thaw food at room temperature, as it can make your food unsafe and lead to foodborne illness. Only the following methods of thawing and defrosting are recommended by food safety experts.