Thanksgiving is a day to be with family and friends and reflect on the many things for which we are thankful, including the end of the hurricane season. Unfortunately, many people end up spending time at hospitals, instead of with their loved ones. Here are a few tips to avoid being with us instead of with your family.
Never thaw a frozen turkey on the counter as it greatly increases the risk of bacteria growth which may not be destroyed by cooking. You can thaw a frozen turkey in the refrigerator or in cold water. In the refrigerator, allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds; in cold water allow 30 minutes per pound and remember to change the water every 30 minutes. Small turkeys can be defrosted in the microwave, but must be cooked immediately after defrosting.
Carve the Turkey, not yourself! Place the turkey on a cutting board or other secure surface, so it does not slide around. Make sure your cutting utensils are clean and sharp. Wash your hands before and after carving.
Burns are one of the most common Thanksgiving mishaps. Be careful when handling hot food. An adult can get a third degree burn with only a 1 second contact with 160°F food or liquid. For a child, it is less than 1 second. Keep children out of the kitchen when cooking and never leave pots on the stove unattended.
Keep food at safe temperature. Between 40°F and 140°F is considered the Danger Zone for food because it isn’t cold enough or hot enough to inhibit bacterial growth. Discard any turkey, stuffing or gravy left out at room temperature for 2 hours or more. Store leftovers in the refrigerator soon after dinner is over.
Don’t forget the four legged members of your family. Alcohol and chocolate can be toxic if consumed by cats or dogs. Small turkey or ham bones can lodge in their throats and poultry skins or fats can cause serious gastrointestinal problems for your furry friends.
If traveling by car on Thanksgiving, allow extra travel time. The biggest travel hours are Thanksgiving Day between 9am and Noon.
If you have last minute questions about cooking your turkey or ham on Thanksgiving, help is available:
USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline – 1-800-535-4555
Butterball Turkey Talk Line – 1-800-323-4848
Honeybaked Ham Consumer Hotline – 1-800-641-8290
And to everyone have a Happy Thanksgiving. Go Lions.
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