• NATIONAL SITE
  • BRITISH COLUMBIA
  • SASKATCHEWAN
  • ALBERTA
  • MANITOBA
  • ONTARIO
  • QUEBEC
  • NEW BRUNSWICK
  • NOVA SCOTIA
  • PEI
  • NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
  • YUKON
  • NUNAVUT
  • NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Storing a Fresh Turkey

 

Processors’ cooling and refrigeration methods may vary and extend the shelf life of some turkeys, therefore, best-before dates on product packaging should be consulted to determine how long a fresh whole turkey can be safely stored in the refrigerator. If no best-before date is present, Health Canada recommends using a fresh whole turkey stored in the refrigerator within 2-3 days of purchase or ask at the place of purchase.

Storing Frozen Turkeys

Whole turkeys can be kept frozen for 1 year.

Once thawed, treat a previously frozen turkey as you would a fresh turkey and do not refreeze until cooked.

Storing 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 turkey hot (above 140°F (60°C)) or refrigerate (below 40°F (4°C)). DO NOT LEAVE TURKEY AT ROOM TEMPERATURE FOR MORE THAN 2 HOURS!!!