Thanksgiving is a big deal for many reasons, but for food safety experts at the USDA, it’s a hectic time. Meredith Carothers, a food safety expert with the USDA, calls it their “food safety Super Bowl.”
Every year, Thanksgiving challenges cooks. There are many ways food can go wrong. Stress adds to the risk. Here’s what many people face when preparing their holiday feast:
- Time Pressure: Cooks often feel rushed.
- Wanting to Impress: There’s a desire to wow family and friends.
- Inexperience: Cooking for the first time can be daunting.
These factors can lead to mistakes in the kitchen, potentially causing food safety issues.
During the Thanksgiving season, the USDA’s Meat and Poultry Hotline receives a flood of unique questions. Over the years, some have been quite strange. For example, one person once asked if a turkey that had been brined in a trash bag was still safe to eat. Another tried to thaw a turkey in the dishwasher! Fortunately, the number of bizarre inquiries has dropped as people become more informed and share knowledge with each other.
Interestingly, a survey by the USDA found that 36% of Americans are unsure how to properly thaw a turkey. This shows that while some are getting better, many still need guidance.
For those looking for food safety advice, help is available. The USDA’s Hotline operates year-round and is especially busy during Thanksgiving.
Here are the contact details:
- Call: 1-888-674-6854 (1-888-MP-HOTLINE)
- Email: MPHotline@usda.gov
This Thanksgiving, remember to double-check your food prep. With a bit of care, you can enjoy a safe and delicious holiday feast!
