United States founding father Alexander Hamilton once proclaimed that “No citizen of the United States should refrain from turkey on Thanksgiving Day.” And according to a survey by the National Turkey Federation, 88% of Americans do eat turkey on Thanksgiving.
If you’re one of the 88%, please follow these tips and be safe. If you’re among the other 12% who don’t prepare or eat turkey for Thanksgiving, please pass these tips along to someone who does!
Tips to Safely Prepare a Turkey:
• Keep food prep surfaces, cutting boards, and utensils clean and sanitized to reduce the risk of Salmonella infection.
• Wash your hands before and after handling raw turkey.
• Thaw a frozen turkey in your refrigerator. Allow about a day for every 5 pounds.
• Use a meat thermometer — inserted into the thickest area of the thigh — to determine if the turkey is thoroughly cooked (180o F).
Tips to Safely Store Turkey Leftovers:
• Remove leftover turkey meat from the bones and remove any stuffing. Refrigerate or freeze within 2 hours of cooking.
• Store turkey leftovers in shallow containers.
• Eat refrigerated turkey leftovers within 3-4 days.
• Immediately freeze leftovers that won’t be eaten within 3-4 days, rather than freezing after those days.
Tips to Keep Pets Safe:
• Never give dogs or cats raw or undercooked turkey — they can get Salmonella, too.
• Never give pets turkey bones.
• Keep kitchen trash cans covered and away from curious pets.