What is the safe way to handle frozen foods to avoid thawing during transport?

Keeping frozen foods in insulated containers or freezer bags is the safest method for handling them during transport. This approach helps maintain a consistent temperature, preventing thawing that can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. Insulated containers are specifically designed to retain cold temperatures for extended periods, ensuring that the food remains frozen. Freezer bags also provide an additional layer of insulation and are typically sealed to prevent air exposure, which further aids in keeping the contents cold.

Using cardboard boxes would not effectively maintain the low temperatures required for frozen foods, as they lack insulation. Stacking frozen items on top of hot foods can lead to unintended thawing due to the heat transfer, compromising the safety of the frozen items. Leaving frozen foods out at room temperature is highly discouraged, as this can lead to rapid temperature increases and significant food safety risks. Thus, the correct method emphasizes insulation to keep frozen foods at safe temperatures during transport.