Final answer:
The correct method for a food worker to thaw chicken wings is by placing the wings in the refrigerator. This ensures that the wings are thawed at a safe temperature, preventing bacterial growth that could occur with other methods. The correct answer is option: b. place the wings in the refrigerator.
Step-by-step explanation:
A food worker needs to thaw a package of chicken wings. The safest method recommended by food safety guidelines is to place the wings in the refrigerator to thaw. This process ensures that the chicken wings are kept at a safe temperature to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Option b, placing the wings in the refrigerator, is the correct answer.
Other methods such as running hot water over the wings or setting them in a heated display are not recommended as they can bring the poultry into the danger zone for temperature, which is between 40°F and 140°F (4°C and 60°C), where bacteria can grow rapidly. Submerging the wings in a bowl of water is only safe if the water is cold and the wings are kept submerged under running water or the water is changed every 30 minutes to ensure it remains cold.