Lets Talk Turkey Safety

11/14/2018 (Permalink)

Turkey Safety

Thanksgiving can be a stressful day for those who are cooking the meal, but do not fret SERVPRO of Cambridge/Belmont has the tips to making your thanksgiving meal a walk through the park!

• Make sure to pick your turkey carefully!
1. Avoid fresh, stuffed turkeys
2. Make sure to buy your turkey at least 1-2 days before you cook it
3. Keep it in the fridge and if you bought it earlier keep it in the freezer
4. Defrost properly.
5. Thaw in the refrigerator (every 4-5 lbs. needs one day to thaw).
• Submerge the turkey (wrapped in leak-proof packaging) in cold water (every 1 lb. needs 30 minutes to thaw) that should be changed every half hour.
• Cook immediately after thawing:
1. Avoid slow cooking or partially cooking the turkey
2. At 165 degrees F at least
3. Make sure to cook the stuffing separately.
• Use a thermometer on the innermost part of the thigh and wing, as well as the thickest portion of the breast, to ensure that the turkey is well cooked.
• If you want a more moist turkey, do not  carve at once; give the juices time (20 min.) to settle.
• Keep Clean!
1. Wash your hands with soap and water before and after handling food.
2. Keep all surfaces and utensils clean.
3. Never handle cooked and raw food together, in order to avoid cross-contamination.
4. Keep raw meat away from vegetables or other uncooked food.