Keep the Feast Safe: Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips for Moms – Did you know the USDA doesn’t recommend stuffing a turkey, especially with large birds? 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. There are SO many other safety tips you should check out before whipping out the bird right here on Newsymom!
This is Public Health is brought to you in partnership with the Tuscarawas County Health Department.
Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a sumptuous feast. As moms, we’re in charge of making sure the food is delicious, but it’s equally important to ensure it’s safe to eat. No one wants a side dish of food-borne illness on their holiday table!
The Tuscarawas County Health Department has SO many resources to help you prepare a tasty, food-safe meal for your family this year. Save these images to your phone for later reference, check out the podcast below (Holiday Eating 101), and read through the ten tips below to have the BEST food-safe holiday ever!
Additionally, here are some essential food safety tips to keep your family’s Thanksgiving celebration both delicious and safe:
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The Art of Defrosting: When it comes to that colossal turkey, planning is key. The safest way to thaw it is in the refrigerator. Allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. You can also use the cold water method by changing the water every 30 minutes, but it’s less convenient.
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Mind the Cross-Contamination: Prevent cross-contamination by keeping raw meats away from ready-to-eat foods. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw turkey and veggies, and be sure to wash your hands thoroughly between tasks.
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The Internal Temperature Trick: Invest in a food thermometer and use it to ensure your turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C). It’s the only way to be sure the bird is safely cooked. Remember to check the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
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The Right Way to Stuff: If you stuff your turkey, do it just before cooking. Overstuffed turkeys take longer to cook and can lead to undercooked meat. Alternatively, consider making your stuffing separately for extra safety.
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Leftovers Love: Store leftovers within two hours of serving to prevent bacterial growth. Use shallow containers for quicker cooling, and be sure to reheat them to 165°F (73.9°C) when you’re ready to enjoy those turkey sandwiches.
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The Perils of the Potluck: If you’re hosting a potluck-style Thanksgiving, remind your guests to keep their dishes at safe temperatures and avoid leaving them out for extended periods. A chafing dish or a slow cooker can help maintain warmth.
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The Dishwashing Drama: While it’s tempting to relax after the big meal, resist the urge to skip the dishes. Wash, rinse, and sanitize all the utensils, cutting boards, and dishes used during food prep and serving.
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The Forgotten Fruits and Veggies: Don’t overlook fruits and veggies, which can also carry bacteria. Wash them thoroughly, even if you plan to peel them, to avoid transferring contaminants to your hands or utensils.
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Safe Food Transport: If you’re traveling to a family gathering, ensure cold foods are kept below 40°F (4.4°C) and hot foods stay above 140°F (60°C) during transport. Use coolers, insulated bags, and hot plates if necessary.
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Report Food Safety Concerns with the Tuscarawas County Health Department: Finally, if you encounter any unsafe food practices in establishments in the Tuscarawas County area, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Tuscarawas County Health Department. They’re there to help ensure food safety. You can report food safety concerns or seek information by calling 330-343-5550. It’s a great resource to keep your family safe and your Thanksgiving stress-free!
Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to come together with family and friends, and ensuring the safety of the food you serve is crucial to a successful celebration. By following these food safety tips, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday, full of delicious memories and zero cases of food-borne illnesses. Happy Thanksgiving!
Melissa Klatt
Reporting