How Long Can a Thawed Turkey Sit in the Fridge? | Safe Food Handling Tips
How Long Can a Thawed Turkey Sit in the Refrigerator?
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and that means it’s time to start planning for the big feast. One of the most important things to consider is how to thaw your turkey. If you thaw your turkey incorrectly, it could end up being unsafe to eat.
So, how long can a thawed turkey sit in the refrigerator? The answer depends on a few factors, including the size of the turkey and the temperature of your refrigerator.
In this article, we’ll discuss how to thaw a turkey safely, how long a thawed turkey can sit in the refrigerator, and what to do if you need to thaw a turkey quickly.
We’ll also provide some tips for storing and cooking your turkey so that it comes out perfectly delicious.
| Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 40F or below | 3-5 days | Safe to eat |
| 40F-140F | 2 hours | Danger zone |
| Above 140F | Discard | Unsafe to eat |
How Long Can a Thawed Turkey Sit in the Refrigerator?
Thawing a turkey can take a long time, especially if you’re thawing it in the refrigerator. So you may be wondering, how long can a thawed turkey sit in the refrigerator before it goes bad?
The answer to that question depends on a few factors, including:
- The temperature of the refrigerator
- The humidity of the refrigerator
- The packaging of the turkey
- Other foods in the refrigerator
Temperature of the Refrigerator
The most important factor affecting how long a thawed turkey can sit in the refrigerator is the temperature of the refrigerator. The ideal temperature for storing a thawed turkey is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. At this temperature, the turkey will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
If the temperature of your refrigerator is higher than 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the turkey will spoil more quickly. For every 5 degrees above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the turkey will only last half as long. So, if your refrigerator is 45 degrees Fahrenheit, the turkey will only last for 1.5 days.
Humidity of the Refrigerator
The humidity of the refrigerator also plays a role in how long a thawed turkey can last. A humid environment will cause the turkey to spoil more quickly than a dry environment.
If you’re thawing the turkey in a plastic bag, make sure to open the bag and let some of the air out. This will help to reduce the humidity around the turkey and keep it from spoiling as quickly.
Packaging of the Turkey
The packaging of the turkey can also affect how long it lasts. If the turkey is packaged in a sealed plastic bag, it will stay fresh for longer than if it is packaged in a loose plastic bag or wrapped in foil.
The reason for this is that the sealed plastic bag creates a barrier between the turkey and the air, which helps to prevent the turkey from drying out and spoiling.
Other Foods in the Refrigerator
The presence of other foods in the refrigerator can also affect how long a thawed turkey can last. If the turkey is stored near foods that produce a lot of moisture, such as fruits and vegetables, it will spoil more quickly.
This is because the moisture from the other foods will cause the turkey to become wet and soggy, which is a perfect environment for bacteria to grow.
How to Tell if a Thawed Turkey Has Gone Bad
If you’re not sure if a thawed turkey has gone bad, there are a few things you can look for:
- Appearance: A thawed turkey that has gone bad will have a slimy or sticky appearance. The skin may also be discolored or have a greenish-yellow tinge.
- Smell: A thawed turkey that has gone bad will have a strong, unpleasant odor. The smell may be described as “off” or “sour.”
- Texture: A thawed turkey that has gone bad will be mushy or slimy. The meat may also be tough or stringy.
If you see any of these signs, it’s best to throw the turkey away. It’s not worth risking getting sick from eating a spoiled turkey.
Thawing a turkey can take a long time, but it’s important to do it properly to avoid food poisoning. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your thawed turkey stays fresh and safe to eat.
References
- [USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: Thawing Meat and Poultry](https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety-education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/safe-food-handling/thawing-meat-and-poultry)
3. How to Store a Thawed Turkey in the Refrigerator
Once you have thawed a turkey, it is important to store it properly in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of bacteria. Here are a few tips for storing a thawed turkey in the refrigerator:
- Wrap the turkey tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help to keep the turkey moist and prevent it from drying out.
- Place the turkey in a covered container or on a plate. This will help to catch any juices that may leak out of the turkey.
- Store the turkey in the coldest part of the refrigerator. The coldest part of the refrigerator is usually located at the back, near the bottom.
It is important to note that a thawed turkey should not be stored in the refrigerator for longer than three to four days. After this time, the turkey should be cooked or frozen again.
4. How Long to Cook a Thawed Turkey
The cooking time for a thawed turkey will vary depending on the size of the turkey and the cooking method. For a general guide, cook a thawed turkey at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes per pound.
Here is a table of cooking times for a thawed turkey:
| Weight of Turkey | Cooking Time |
|—|—|
| 10 to 12 pounds | 3 to 3 1/2 hours |
| 12 to 14 pounds | 3 1/2 to 4 hours |
| 14 to 16 pounds | 4 to 4 1/2 hours |
| 16 to 18 pounds | 4 1/2 to 5 hours |
| 18 to 20 pounds | 5 to 5 1/2 hours |
| 20 to 24 pounds | 5 1/2 to 6 hours |
It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the specific turkey you are cooking. To ensure that the turkey is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature of a cooked turkey should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator is the safest way to thaw a turkey. It will take longer than thawing a turkey in cold water, but it will help to prevent the growth of bacteria. Once the turkey is thawed, it should be stored in the refrigerator for no longer than three to four days. To cook a thawed turkey, cook it at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes per pound.
How long can a thawed turkey sit in the refrigerator?
- Answer: A thawed turkey can sit in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
What happens if I leave a thawed turkey out of the refrigerator for too long?
- Answer: If you leave a thawed turkey out of the refrigerator for more than 2 hours, it is considered unsafe to eat.
Can I refreeze a thawed turkey?
- Answer: No, you cannot refreeze a thawed turkey. Once a turkey has been thawed, it must be cooked or discarded.
How do I thaw a turkey safely?
- Answer: There are three safe ways to thaw a turkey:
- In the refrigerator: Place the turkey in a large bowl or roasting pan in the refrigerator. Allow the turkey to thaw for 1-2 days, or until it is fully thawed.
- In cold water: Place the turkey in a large sink or container filled with cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes. Allow the turkey to thaw for 3-4 hours, or until it is fully thawed.
- In the microwave: Place the turkey in a microwave-safe dish. Cook on high for 5 minutes per pound, or until the turkey is fully thawed.
What is the best way to cook a turkey?
- Answer: The best way to cook a turkey is to roast it in the oven. Here are some tips for roasting a turkey:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Rub the turkey with olive oil or butter.
- Stuff the turkey with your favorite stuffing.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and cook for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
How long does it take to cook a turkey?
- Answer: The cooking time for a turkey depends on its size. A 10-pound turkey will take about 3 hours to cook, while a 20-pound turkey will take about 5 hours to cook.
What are some tips for storing leftover turkey?
- Answer: Here are some tips for storing leftover turkey:
- Cool the turkey quickly.
- Refrigerate the turkey in shallow containers.
- Label the containers with the date.
- Eat the turkey within 3-4 days.
thawing a turkey in the refrigerator is the safest way to thaw a turkey. It takes longer than thawing a turkey in cold water, but it is less likely to result in foodborne illness. Thawed turkeys should be cooked within 2 days of thawing. If you cannot cook the turkey within 2 days, you can refreeze it. However, the turkey will lose some of its flavor and texture.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Thaw a turkey in the refrigerator for 1-3 days, depending on its size.
- Do not thaw a turkey at room temperature.
- Cook a thawed turkey within 2 days of thawing.
- If you cannot cook the turkey within 2 days, refreeze it.
By following these tips, you can safely thaw a turkey and enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal.
Author Profile
-
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.
I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.
Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.
Latest entries
- January 16, 2024Can Animals Eat This?How to Cook Salmon and Rice: A Delicious and Healthy Meal
- January 16, 2024Can You Eat This?Can You Eat Parrots? (A Complete Guide)
- January 16, 2024Can You Eat This?Can You Eat Tomatoes With Black Spots?: The Ultimate Guide
- January 16, 2024Can Animals Eat This?Can Rabbits Eat Rosemary: The Ultimate Guide