Are You in Charge of the Holiday Meal?

By Karen Blakeslee

Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020

turkey
Stuffing cooked inside a turkey must reach 165°F.

While the holidays can be stressful, don’t let the holiday meal stress you out! Take time to plan ahead to ease the stress and have success.

  • Decide when to purchase a fresh or frozen turkey. Order a fresh turkey to be picked up the week of Thanksgiving.
  • If buying a whole turkey, plan for one pound per person.
  • Plan for about one week to thaw a frozen turkey in the refrigerator safely. Do not wash the turkey before cooking.
  • Use a food thermometer to determine doneness; all poultry products should reach a minimum 165°F.

More information can be found at Food Safety for Holiday Meals.