Tips for a Safe and Healthy Holiday Feast

VALDOSTA – As the Christmas season approaches, the Georgia Department of Public Health’s South Health District encourages residents to keep food safety at the top of their holiday checklist. Whether roasting, baking, or frying your festive centerpiece, safe food handling ensures your holiday gathering is filled with joy—not foodborne illness.

Thawing:
Proper thawing is the first step toward a safe and delicious holiday meal. Always thaw frozen meats in the refrigerator, keeping them in a container or leak-proof plastic bag to prevent drips. If time is short, use the cold water method, changing the water every 30 minutes. Avoid thawing at room temperature, as harmful bacteria can multiply rapidly when food is left out for more than two hours.

Handling:
Raw poultry and meats can harbor bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter. Protect yourself and your guests by washing your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water before, during, and after handling raw meat. Clean all utensils, cutting boards, and surfaces with hot, soapy water to prevent cross-contamination.

Preparing:
Keep raw meats, poultry, and eggs separate from other foods to reduce the risk of contamination. Use designated cutting boards for raw items, and store them in sealed containers in the refrigerator to avoid leaks.

Stuffing:
For families that enjoy stuffing, safety is key. Cooking stuffing separately in a casserole dish ensures it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F. If you prefer stuffing inside your turkey, add it just before cooking, and use a food thermometer to check that the stuffing also reaches 165°F in the center. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before serving.

Cooking:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend cooking your turkey at a minimum oven temperature of 325°F. Use a food thermometer to check the thickest parts of the breast, thigh, and wing, and confirm that the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow the turkey to rest for 20 minutes before carving to lock in juices and flavor.

Chris Calhoun, District Environmental Health Director, reminds residents: “The holidays are a time to share love, laughter, and good food. But mishandling food can quickly turn a celebration into a nightmare. Follow food safety guidelines, trust your instincts, and take extra care to protect your loved ones.”

No matter what’s on your holiday menu, prioritizing food safety ensures a merry and memorable season for all. Wash hands, avoid cross-contamination, and always cook foods to the proper temperature to safeguard against foodborne illness.

Wishing you and your family a happy, safe, and healthy holiday season!