"Thanksgiving Day is just two weeks away, and it’s time to get ready. Here are answers to important food safety questions so you can cook your turkey safely.
Q: How long does it take to thaw a turkey?
A: The time it takes to thaw a turkey depends on which of these three thawing methods you choose:
- Refrigerator thaw method (recommended): 24 hours for every five pounds.
- Cold-water bath method: 30 minutes per pound.
- Microwave method: follow instructions in the owner’s manual.
The turkey should never be thawed on the counter or in hot water and must not be left at room temperature for more than two hours.
Q: Should I wash my turkey?
A: No. Washing or rinsing any meat or poultry is not recommended, and actually increases the risk you will cross-contaminate germs to other foods you’re preparing. But if you do choose to wash your turkey, you need to fully clean and sanitize your sink. Cleaning and sanitizing is a two-step process. To clean, rub down surfaces including the sink, cutting boards, and counter tops with soap and hot water and then sanitize them with a cleaning solution to remove any residual germs you cannot see. You can use a homemade solution of one tablespoon of unscented, liquid chlorine bleach in one gallon of water. Let air dry.
Q: Should I stuff my turkey?
A: USDA does not recommend stuffing a turkey for food safety reasons. When stuffed, it takes a longer time to cook the turkey, and you must make sure the innermost part of the stuffing has also reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be challenging with large birds.
Q: Should I roast my turkey breast side up or down?
A: USDA recommends cooking a whole turkey breast side up if it is being roasted in the oven.
Q: How long do you cook a turkey in an oven bag?
A: Oven cooking bags are safe and can be an effective way to speed up the cooking process. For whole, unstuffed turkeys in oven cooking bags, cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for the following approximate times:
- 8-12 lb. turkey: 1 1/2 to 2 hours
- 12 to 16 lb. turkey: 2 to 2 1/2 hours
- 16-20 lb. turkey: 2 1/2 to 3 hours
- 20-24 lb. turkey: 3 to 3 1/2 hours..
Thanksgiving safety
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