Urgent Update: Don’t Delay Thanksgiving Turkey Purchases!

UPDATE: As Thanksgiving approaches on November 23, 2023, experts urge consumers to consider when to buy their turkeys. With the holiday just weeks away, the question looms: is it too soon to purchase your turkey?

Food safety officials are weighing in on this pressing issue. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, if you plan to buy a fresh turkey, it is best to wait until just one or two days before cooking. This ensures optimal freshness and safety, with the turkey needing to be stored in the refrigerator on a tray to catch any juices.

However, for those opting for frozen turkeys, you can buy one at any time, as long as you allow sufficient time for thawing. The health department states that a turkey can be kept in the freezer “indefinitely,” but it’s recommended to cook it within a year for the best quality. This means savvy shoppers could even purchase a turkey after this Thanksgiving for next year’s feast!

As we prepare for the big day, it’s crucial to remember proper thawing techniques. The U.S. Food Safety and Inspection Service warns against leaving your turkey on the counter for extended periods, as this can increase the risk of foodborne bacteria. Specifically, any frozen meat left out for more than 2 hours is not considered safe.

Instead, the agency recommends three safe thawing methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or using a microwave. The timing for thawing will depend on the size of your turkey—larger birds will require more time to thaw safely.

For those who might forget to thaw their turkey, don’t panic! The FSIS assures that frozen turkeys can still be cooked, although they will take approximately 50% longer than their thawed counterparts.

As Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, many are also looking for convenient meal options. Notably, Walmart has announced its “Thanksgiving Meal Basket,” designed to feed 10 people for under $40, catering to families looking for budget-friendly solutions.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to finalize your plans. Don’t miss out on getting the perfect turkey! As the holiday approaches, remember to prioritize food safety and enjoy the festivities.