Thawing a Turkey (2283)

Thawing a turkey in the refrigerator is the safest method. A turkey may also be thawed under cold water or in the microwave. Allow about 24 hours per 5 pounds of turkey for refrigerator thawing. Some general thawing times are:

- An 8 to 12 pound turkey takes 1 to 2 days.

- A 12 to 16 pound turkey takes 2 to 3 days.

- A 16 to 20 pound turkey takes 3 to 4 days.

- A 20 to 24 pound turkey takes 4 to 5 days.

- Pieces of a turkey, such as a half or quarter, will take 1 to 2 days thawing time in the refrigerator.

Turkey thawed in the refrigerator may be safely kept in the refrigerator an additional 1-2 days before preparation.

Turkey may also be thawed in a microwave oven. Check the manufacturer' s instructions. Cook a turkey thawed in the microwave immediately after thawing.  Do not thaw a turkey on the kitchen counter. In the time the turkey is thawing, bacteria may produce toxins that cooking won't destroy. A whole frozen turkey can be stored in your home freezer at 0 degrees or below for up to one year without loss of quality. A fresh turkey must be cooked or frozen within 1 to 2 days.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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