To ensure food safety when cooking turkey and prevent it from entering the danger zone, it is important to follow these precautions:
- Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
- Cook the turkey to an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
- Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly to prevent bacterial growth.
- Avoid leaving the turkey at room temperature for more than 2 hours.