What is the proper way to thaw frozen food at Panda Express?

Thawing frozen food properly is essential in a food service environment like Panda Express to ensure food safety and maintain quality. The correct method is to thaw food in the refrigerator or under cold running water. This approach prevents the growth of harmful bacteria that can occur if food is left to thaw at room temperature or in warmer environments.

Thawing in the refrigerator allows the food to gradually reach a safe temperature while remaining consistent and controlled. This minimizes the risk of any part of the food entering the danger zone (between 41°F and 135°F), where bacteria can rapidly multiply. Additionally, using cold running water provides a quicker alternative while still keeping the food at an acceptable temperature, ensuring that it thaws evenly and remains safe for consumption.

Using hot water, room temperature methods, or microwaving can compromise food safety and quality. For instance, hot water can cause the outer layers of food to enter the danger zone, while microwaving may lead to uneven thawing, which can create hot spots and partially cook some parts of the food, potentially affecting texture and flavor. Therefore, the recommended methods are aligned with food safety protocols and best practices.