Essential Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips from San Antonio’s Health Officer to Keep Your Holiday Feast Safe

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and fun, but it’s also crucial to keep food safety in mind. The City of San Antonio’s Metropolitan Health District warns that improper food storage and preparation can lead to foodborne illnesses.

Food poisoning can hit quickly, with symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea appearing within hours or days after eating contaminated food. In severe cases, this can lead to hospitalization or worse.

To ensure a safe Thanksgiving feast, Jesse Roel Jr., an environmental health officer with Metro Health, emphasizes the importance of cooking turkey to the right temperature. He recommends using a meat thermometer to check the turkey in three key spots: the thickest part of the breast, the thigh, and any stuffing. The target temperature? A safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Roel also advises against leaving food out at room temperature for too long. It’s best to refrigerate leftovers within two to three hours to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

Here are some additional tips to keep your holiday safe:

• Clean Up: Keep your cooking area tidy to avoid cross-contamination.
• Separate Ingredients: Always separate raw meat from vegetables and fruits.
• Wash Your Hands: Make sure to wash your hands frequently while cooking.
• Dispose of Leftovers: It’s wise to throw out leftovers after three to four days.

According to a recent survey by the Food and Drug Administration, nearly 70% of Americans are unaware of the importance of cooking their turkey to the proper temperature. This highlights the need for better education on food safety practices during holidays.

Keeping these guidelines in mind can help ensure a joyous and safe Thanksgiving for you and your loved ones. For more details on food safety, refer to the FDA’s official guidelines here.

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