How Long Can You Safely Keep a Thawed Turkey Before Cooking?

Learn how long a thawed turkey can be kept safely in the refrigerator and best thawing practices to prevent foodborne illness.

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A thawed turkey can be safely kept in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 days before cooking. It’s important to ensure that the turkey remains at a safe temperature of 40°F or below to prevent the growth of bacteria. If the turkey has been left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s considered unsafe and should not be consumed. To ensure food safety, always thaw your turkey in the refrigerator, in cold water (changing the water every 30 minutes), or in the microwave, following the manufacturer's guidelines.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Can you refreeze a thawed turkey? Yes, you can refreeze a turkey only if it has been thawed in the refrigerator and kept at 40°F or below, and has not been out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
  2. What are the safest ways to thaw a turkey? The safest methods to thaw a turkey include thawing in the refrigerator, thawing in cold water (changing the water every 30 minutes), or using the microwave according to manufacturer guidelines.
  3. How long can a turkey be left out at room temperature? A turkey should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours as this can allow harmful bacteria to grow, making it unsafe to eat.

Watch More

For more tips on cooking poultry safely and properly, explore our guides on the best ways to store and cook chicken, as well as how to avoid common food safety mistakes during holiday meal preparation.

  1. Can You Safely Refreeze Thawed Turkey? Expert Food Safety Tips Learn when it is safe to refreeze thawed turkey and avoid foodborne illness. Follow expert guidelines for proper turkey handling.