19
Defrosting Guidelines
Arrange food in a single
layer.
Shield chickens and
joints of meat .
Turn or break up food as
soon as possible.
For Best Results:
1. Place foods in a suitable container. Meat joints and chickens should be placed on
an upturned saucer or on a plastic rack if you have one.
2. Check food during defrosting, as foods vary in their defrosting speed.
3. It is not necessary to cover the food.
4. Always turn or stir the food especially when the oven “beepsʼʼ. Shield if necessary
(see point 6).
5. Minced meat, chops and other small items should be broken up or separated as soon
as possible and placed in a single layer.
6. Shielding prevents food cooking. It is essential when defrosting chickens and joints
of meat. The outside thaws out first, so protect wings/breast and fat with smooth
pieces of aluminium foil secured with cocktail sticks.
7. Allow standing time so that the centre of the food thaws out. (Minimum of 1 hour for
joints of meat and whole chickens).
