How long should you wait after thawing meat to cook it?

Here's why:

* Food Safety: Thawing meat allows bacteria to multiply rapidly, especially at room temperature. The longer it sits, the higher the risk of foodborne illness.

* Quality: The longer thawed meat sits, the more moisture it loses, making it tougher and drier when cooked.

The best practice is to cook thawed meat immediately.

If you must wait, keep it refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. However, it's generally best to cook it within 24 hours of thawing.

Tips for safe and quick thawing:

* Refrigerator: The safest way to thaw meat is in the refrigerator. Allow ample time, about 24 hours for every 5 pounds of meat.

* Cold Water: Place the sealed meat in a leak-proof bag and submerge it in cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. This method takes about 30 minutes per pound.

* Microwave: Some microwaves have a defrost setting, but this method can unevenly thaw meat, so be sure to cook it immediately afterwards.

Always check the meat's internal temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it is cooked to a safe temperature.