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Turkey Shopping Guide - Read the Label!
By: RecipeCove.com
Turkey time is right around the corner. More turkeys are bought during the months of November and December than any other
time of the year. So how do you pick the best turkey for your holiday dinner?
First, read the label. What kind of turkey is it? Young turkeys are usually less than 8 pounds and are sometimes labeled
as "fryers" or "roasters". These turkeys have the most tender meat. Look for one that is labeled "Grade
A" Larger turkeys are older.
Also make sure to check the date on the label. This might be a "sell by", "best if used by" or "use
by" date. These all mean different things. Turkeys are usually safe to use within a couple of days of the "sell
by" date. "Best if used by" means that you will experience the best quality and flavor if the turkey is prepared
by this date. The "Use by" date is critical. The turkey should not be cooked and served after this date.
These dates only apply to fresh turkeys. If you freeze the turkey before this date you have put the freshness on hold.
Just make sure you follow the proper defrosting guidelines when you remove it from the freezer.
Finally, the USDA also requires that the label contain information about proper handling and safety issues. Many also
include cooking directions.
Check out the label before you buy that Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey. Make sure you pay attention to the date if
you are not planning on freezing the turkey and finally, follow proper food handling procedures and you will have a delicious
holiday meal.
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