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Saturday, November 17, 2012

Thawing Time For Big Bird

"The Big Thaw"
Turkeys must be kept at a safe temperature during "the big thaw." Frozen turkeys should not be left on the back porch, in the car trunk, in the clothes dryer, or any place else where temperatures cannot be constantly monitored. 

Refrigerator Thawing 
When thawing a turkey in the refrigerator:
  • Plan ahead: allow approximately 24 hours for each 4 to 5 pounds in a refrigerator 
  • Place the turkey in a container to prevent a nasty mess.

Refrigerator Thawing Times
Whole turkey:
  •  4 to 12 pounds ……  1 to 3 days
  • 12 to 16 pounds …… 3 to 4 days
  • 16 to 20 pounds …… 4 to 5 days
  • 20 to 24 pounds …… 5 to 6 days

A thawed turkey can remain in the refrigerator for 1 or 2 days before cooking.