All About Turkey
Storing
Learn how to store your turkey products properly to ensure you can enjoy them safely.
Storing 101
Keep the following guidelines in mind when determining how long you can safely store your turkey products:
Before Cooking (raw turkey):
- If you have purchased a fresh whole turkey, remove the giblets and refrigerate in a covered container for use within 2-3 days
- Whole turkeys can be kept frozen for 1 year, parts for 6 months. Once thawed, treat as fresh turkey and do not refreeze until cooked
- Ground turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for 1 day, or in the freezer for 2-3 months
- Cooked meats or cold cuts should be used within 3-4 days after placement in the refrigerator, or after 2-3 months in the freezer
*NOTE: Count the number of days from the “packaged on” date
After Cooking (cooked turkey):
Cooked turkey can be stored in a covered container, plastic bag or aluminum foil for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, or up to 3 months in the freezer
NOTE: After cooking, keep the turkey hot (above 140°F (60°C)) or refrigerate below 40°F (4°C). Do NOT leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours!
