The turkey is thawing, the pies are cooling, and the kitchen is buzzing — Thanksgiving is almost here! As you gear up for a day filled with family, gratitude, and really good food, it’s the perfect time to brush up on a few simple food-safety tips. A little extra care in the kitchen can help keep everyone healthy and happy around the table.
These food safety tips are brought to you in partnership with
The Tuscarawas County Health Department
Here’s what every home cook should know before the big feast:
It Starts With Safe Shopping & Storage
Before the cooking even begins, food safety starts at the store.
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Keep raw meats — especially turkey — separate from produce in your cart and bags.
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Refrigerate groceries as soon as you get home.
Avoid thawing your turkey on the counter — that’s a fast way for bacteria to multiply.
Prep & Store Like a Pro: Clean, Separate, Chill
Thanksgiving meals often mean a lot of hands (and ingredients) in the kitchen. Here’s how to keep things safe:
Clean:
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Wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds before handling food.
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Wipe down counters and wash cutting boards often — especially after prepping raw meat.
Separate:
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Keep raw turkey and its juices away from ready-to-eat foods.
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Use separate cutting boards for meat and produce.
Chill:
- Never leave ingredients or prepared food out for more than two hours
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Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours.
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Store leftovers in shallow containers so they cool quickly and safely.
The Turkey Talk: What About Stuffing?
If you bought a frozen turkey, remember to give it plenty of time to thaw safely. It is never recommended to thaw at room temperature- that’s a quick and easy opportunity for bacteria to multiply. Instead, thaw your turkey in the refrigerator. (About 24hrs for every 4-5 pounds)
Whether you’re team “stuff the bird” or team “bake it on the side,” safety comes first.
If stuffing goes inside the turkey, it must also reach 165°F. If it’s not there yet, keep cooking — even if the turkey itself is done.
For an easier, safer option: cook stuffing in its own dish.
Serving the Feast Safely
Once everything is cooked and ready to serve:
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Keep hot foods hot (140°F or warmer).
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Keep cold foods cold (40°F or cooler).
After-Dinner Leftovers (a.k.a. the Best Part)
Thanksgiving leftovers are one of the best parts of the holiday — just be sure to enjoy them safely:
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Eat within 3–4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
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Reheat leftovers to 165°F before eating.
A Safe Meal Is a Happy Meal
Thanksgiving is about connecting with the people you love — not about worrying whether the turkey was cooked enough. With these simple food-safety steps, you can relax, enjoy the day, and serve a meal everyone feels good about.
