Health Department Suggests Holiday Cooking Safety Tips

PARKERSBURG - The Ohio Mid-Ohio Valley Health Department's Environmental Health Division is offering safety tips for cooking your Thanksgiving turkey.

"We want everyone in Ohio's Central Valley to be able to enjoy a healthy Thanksgiving dinner while maintaining food safety standards," said Nicole Needs, director of environmental health.

Turkeys must be thawed in the refrigerator within 24 hours per five pounds. Cold water baths can be used for 30 minutes per pound. Under no circumstances should the turkey be thawed in hot water or left on the counter.

Cleaning or washing the turkey increases the risk of spreading germs to other foods.

Stuffing the turkey is not recommended. It will take longer to cook the bird and stuffing to the desired temperature of 165 degrees. Boil the pulp in a separate dish.

Cook the turkey breast at a minimum temperature of 325 degrees. If you are using a baking bag, follow the manufacturer's instructions for how long to bake.

You will need approx.

* 8-12 pounds of turkey. 1 1/2-2 hours

* 12-16 pounds of turkey. 2-2 1/2 hours

*16-20 kg turkey: 2 1/2-3 hours

* 20-24 kg turkey: 3-3 1/2 hours

The temperature of the turkey should reach 165ºC as measured with a food thermometer. Check the temperature in the thickest part of the breast, inner thigh and inner side.

To avoid food poisoning, refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking. Cut the turkey into smaller pieces to cool quickly. Use leftover turkey and any dishes made with it within three days. Freeze the turkey for longer storage. Heat leftovers to at least 165 degrees.

For more information, call USDA's Meat and Poultry Division Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., at 1 888 674-6854 or chat directly at Ask.usda .gov. The phone is open on Thanksgiving Day from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The Ohio Mid Valley Health Authority serves Wood, Wirth, Calhoun, Pleasant, Ritchie and Roane counties. The company is headquartered at 211 Sixth St., Parkersburg, and offices are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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