Garrett County Health Department Offers Essential Food Safety Tips for Thanksgiving

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE OF RELEASE: November 19, 2024

SUBJECT: Garrett County Health Department Offers Essential Food Safety Tips for Thanksgiving

CONTACT PERSON: Bryce A. Manges, L.E.H.S. | TELEPHONE: 301-334-7760

As families across Garrett County prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving on November 28th, the Garrett County Health Department emphasizes the importance of food safety during this festive season. The tradition of enjoying turkey and various side dishes has been cherished for generations, but it comes with a cautionary note: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one in six Americans will fall ill from a foodborne illness each year.

Large gatherings, coupled with the variety of dishes served, create an ideal environment for bacteria to proliferate if food is not handled properly. In light of this, the Garrett County Health Department urges everyone to follow essential do’s and don’ts when preparing their Thanksgiving feast.

Do’s:

• Maintain Good Hygiene: Wash hands for at least 20 seconds before, during, and after food preparation. This practice is crucial for ensuring safe eating.
• Thaw Turkey Properly: Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator (≤41°F) for several days or under cool (<70°F) running water.
• Cook Turkey Properly: Ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for at least 15 seconds, checking multiple areas, especially the thickest part.
• Refrigerate Leftovers Promptly: Store leftovers within two hours of serving to prevent bacterial growth, particularly clostridium perfringens, which thrives in the danger zone (between 135°F and 41°F).

Don’ts:

• Don’t Wash Raw Turkey: Washing raw turkey can spread bacteria to your sink and countertops, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
• Don’t Thaw Turkey at Room Temperature: Leaving the turkey on the counter or in the sink overnight can expose it to harmful bacteria.
• Don’t Rely Solely on the Turkey Pop-Up Timer: Always check the internal temperature of the turkey in multiple areas to ensure it has reached the safe temperature of 165°F, especially if it is stuffed.

“Don’t let improper food handling spoil your first day of deer rifle season or ruin your Black Friday shopping experience,” cautioned Bryce Manges, Environmental Health Specialist at the Garrett County Health Department. “Follow these basic food safety guidelines to help keep you and your family safe this holiday season.”

For more information on food safety, please contact the Garrett County Health Department, Environmental Health, at 301-334-7760.

The Garrett County Health Department is dedicated to promoting health and well-being for all residents. Through education, prevention, and community engagement, we strive to create a healthier environment for everyone.