We spoke to food safety experts to learn whether you should thaw meat on the counter and the science behind the risks. The method poses a food safety risk, as it can potentially lead to foodborne illness. In the Refrigerator"The safest way to thaw meat is in the refrigerator," says Baker. Cold water thawing: Packages of meat (about 1 pound) will take about one hour or less to thaw in cold water, says Baum. Cold water thawing: When thawed in cold water, larger items take about 30 minutes per pound to fully defrost, says Baum.