How Long Can You Keep Leftover Turkey in the Refrigerator? As the Thanksgiving feast comes to an end, many of us find ourselves with copious amounts of leftover turkey. From hearty sandwiches to refreshing Cobb salads, the possibilities for repurposing this delicious protein seem endless. But how long can you safely keep that leftover turkey in the refrigerator? According to Alexis Supan, a registered dietitian for Cleveland Clinic, once you have prepared the turkey and it is ready to be stored, you should not leave it out for more than two hours. This is because the temperature danger zone for food is between 40 degrees and 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and most foods fall within that range within a two-hour timeframe. If you anticipate needing more time to enjoy your turkey leftovers, there are precautions you can take to ensure their safety. Supan suggests using a slow cooker to keep the meat warm or warming it in the oven once you approach the two-hour mark. The core temperature of the turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is safe to consume. It is important to note that if your leftovers are exposed to temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit, such as sitting in a hot car or under direct sunlight, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend refrigerating the turkey within one hour to prevent food poisoning. If left out for too long, turkey can become a breeding ground for bacteria. The CDC warns of outbreaks of Clostridium perfringens, the second most common bacterial cause of food poisoning, during the months of November and December. Such outbreaks are often tied to foods commonly served during holiday meals, including turkey and roast beef, and can lead to symptoms such as vomiting and abdominal cramps within 24 hours. Now, let’s talk about storing leftover turkey in the refrigerator. If you find yourself with uneaten turkey after your Thanksgiving guests have departed, proper storage is essential. It is recommended to slice up the meat into smaller portions and use sealed containers to prevent the growth of bacteria and retain moisture. Larger containers take longer for the food to cool down, so using multiple smaller containers can help inhibit bacterial growth, as advised by FoodSafety.gov. When it comes to cooling leftovers, it is a common misconception that you should let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating. However, FoodSafety.gov states that this is unnecessary and can actually make your food unsafe. Leftovers should be placed in the refrigerator or freezer as soon as possible, even if they still have steam or heat coming off of them. The recommended storage window for leftover turkey in the refrigerator is three to four days, according to the Cleveland Clinic. If you are unable to finish the leftovers by Cyber Monday, you always have the option to freeze them. However, it is important to keep in mind that after three or four months in the freezer, the quality and flavor of the turkey may begin to deteriorate. As personal injury bloggers, we not only provide valuable insights into legal matters, but we also prioritize the safety and well-being of our readers. Proper food storage and handling are crucial to preventing foodborne illnesses. By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy your leftover turkey without compromising your health. Stay informed, stay safe, and savor every last bite of that Thanksgiving meal! Tag: Personal Injury Law Featured Image: “Leftover Turkey Storage”