Storing Turkey

A turkey is a very large piece of meat that needs proper storage in order to maintain food safety. Follow these food safety tips for storing fresh, frozen and leftover turkey.

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Turkey

Storing raw turkey:

A chilly-bin is a good way of keeping chilled and frozen products cold when taking them home from the supermarket, especially in the summer.
Do not leave poultry sitting in the car for hours before refrigerating.
Ensure turkey and poultry is stored in a fridge operating at a temperature between 2°C and 4°C.
Make sure you store raw poultry in the bottom of your fridge away from any cooked meats or fresh vegetables. Ensure it is also covered or wrapped.
Always ensure you cook your turkey before the best before date.
Raw turkey can be kept in the freezer safely for up to 1 year at a temperature-18°C or colder.
It is best to freeze fresh turkey products on the date of purchase and always remember to label with the date it has been placed in the freezer.

Storing cooked turkey leftovers:

Cover cooked turkey and poultry leftovers immediately after they have finished steaming and put them in the fridge.
Before storing, slice leftover turkey into smaller portions, rather than leaving whole. This ensures even and efficient cooling when placed in the fridge.
Store turkey, stuffing, gravy and any other leftovers in separate containers.
Make sure your fridge is operating at a temperature between 2°C and 4°C.
Always store cooked turkey in a covered container at the top of the fridge, above raw poultry.
You should eat turkey leftovers within 3–4 days and always ensure you reheat them correctly.
For longer storage, you can freeze leftover cooked turkey. Ensure you date the container and use within 3–4 months of freezing. Once defrosted, use within 1 day.
Click here for some inspiration on ways to use your leftover turkey.

Click here to find more tips and tricks for turkey.
Video Guide on how to Cook the Perfect Roast Turkey

Storing Turkey

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