Freezing meat: Does it kill harmful bacteria?

Does freezing raw meat kill harmful germs and bacteria?

- Tammy / Idaho

Answer

Freezing meat doesn't kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. It simply inhibits their growth. When you thaw the frozen meat, any microorganisms that were present before freezing will start multiplying again.

The best way to kill harmful microorganisms in meat is by cooking meat to a temperature of at least 160 F (71 C). Use a food thermometer in the thickest portion of the meat to make sure you've cooked to a high enough temperature to destroy bacteria.

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