Health and Safety Code section 114020

Frozen potentially hazardous food shall only be thawed in one of the following ways:

(a)

Under refrigeration that maintains the food temperature at 41°F or below.

(b)

Completely submerged under potable running water for a period not to exceed two hours at a water temperature of 70°F or below, and with sufficient water velocity to agitate and flush off loose particles into the sink drain.

(c)

In a microwave oven if immediately followed by immediate preparation.

(d)

As part of a cooking process.

Source: Section 114020, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=HSC§ionNum=114020.­ (updated Jan. 1, 2007; accessed Jun. 25, 2025).

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Verified:
Jun. 25, 2025

§ 114020's source at ca​.gov