Myth #2: It's OK to thaw meat on the counter. Since it starts out frozen, bacteria isn't really a problem. Fact: Actually, bacteria grow surprisingly rapidly at room temperatures, so the counter is never a place you should thaw foods. Instead, thaw foods the right way. —FoodSafety. Gov Which statement provides convincing evidence that meat should not be thawed on the counter? Since it starts out frozen, bacteria isn't really a problem. The FDA advises that foods be thawed the right way. The counter is never a place you should thaw foods. Bacteria grow surprisingly rapidly at room temperatures.