Turkey Q&A: Frequently Asked Turkey Questions

Increase your "turkey trivia" and impress your family and friends at the dinner table!

Do you have other questions regarding your turkey?

If you don't find the answers here, call our free Information Line at 1-800-621-3505.

Q:         How do I know when the turkey is done?
A:         Turkey is done when the meat thermometer inserted in the breast reads 170°F. and 180°F. when inserted deep in the thigh, not touching the bone. Juices should be clear.
        
Q:         Which is best, a refrigerated or a frozen turkey?
A:         Most people will not be able to notice any difference in flavor or quality. Refrigerated turkey may be more convenient since it does not require thawing. Go to How to Thaw a Frozen Turkey for more information.
        
Q:         How long will a turkey keep in the freezer?
A:         For best quality we recommend using a turkey within one year of freezing. A frozen turkey, once thawed, should be used within 2 to 3 days of thawing.
        
Q:         How long will a fresh turkey keep in the refrigerator?
A:         Cook the turkey by the “Use by” date found on the weight tag or weight sticker. If you do not plan to use by that date, freeze the turkey immediately.
        
Q:         Can I refreeze a thawed turkey?
A:         You can refreeze a thawed turkey if it has been properly defrosted in the refrigerator. Cook a thawed turkey within 3 days of thawing. Go to
        
Q:         What is the best way to thaw a turkey?
A:         The best way to thaw a frozen turkey is on a tray in the refrigerator. It takes 4 hours per pound to thaw a turkey (24 hours for every 5 pounds). Never thaw a turkey at room temperature. Go to  for more information.
        
Q:         How much turkey should I buy?
A:         Plan on about ¾ to 1 pound per person. Go to How to Buy a Turkey for more details.
        
Q:         Do I need to baste my turkey?
A:         No. Studies show basting liquid poured over the surface of the turkey does not penetrate the skin. Repeated opening of the oven door to baste the turkey lengthens the cooking time.
        
Q:         Will the plastic leg clamp melt when I roast the turkey? How do I take it off?
A:         The “Hock-Lock-Clamp” is made out of a heat resistant nylon designed for roasting. It is easily removed with a kitchen scissors after roasting.
        
Q:         When should I stuff the turkey?
A:         Stuff your turkey just before roasting. Go to How to Stuff a Turkey for more information.
        
Q:         How long should I roast the turkey?
A:         Roast turkey at 325°F. until a meat thermometer inserted in the breast reads 170°F. and 180°F. when inserted deep in the thigh, not touching the bone. Juices should be clear. See How to Cook a Turkey for a roasting timetable.
        
Q:         Is it OK to leave the leftover turkey out for people to snack on?
A:         You should remove the meat from the bones and refrigerate in containers within 2 hours of roasting. Leftovers may be kept 3 to 4 days. Leftover turkey may be frozen 3 to 4 months. Go to How to Safely Handle Turkey for more information.
        
Q:         How long can leftovers be stored?
A:         Leftover turkey should be removed from the bones and refrigerated in containers within 2 hours of roasting. Leftovers may be kept 3 to 4 days. Leftover turkey may be frozen 3 to 4 months. For more information, go to How to Store Leftover Turkey.
        
Q:         Are tom (male) turkeys more tender than hens (female)?
A:         No. Tenderness depends on the age of the bird when processed. Today, nearly all turkeys come to market young and tender, so a 24-pound turkey can be as tender as a 6-pound bird.
        
Q:         What are giblets?
A:         Giblets are the turkey’s gizzard, heart and liver. The giblets and neck, when cooked, are a delicious addition to gravy and stuffing.
        
Q:         Do all JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® whole turkeys come with a giblet bag?
A:         All JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® whole turkeys come with a giblet bag with the exception of the JENNIE-O TURKEY STORE® oven ready turkeys. The giblet bag can be found in either cavity.
        
Q:         What are self-basting turkeys?
A:         Some turkeys are sold as "basted" or "self-basted" which means a solution usually containing natural broth, stock or water and seasoning has been added. The percentage of solution added to the turkey is printed on the label.
        
Q:         Why does my turkey appear to be blue in color?
A:         The skin color of a raw turkey is off-white to cream. Under the skin, the color can range from pink to lavender blue depending on the amount of fat under the skin.
        
Q:         Do you have a listing of Jennie-O Turkey Store gluten free products?
A:         

We are providing the following list of products as a general guideline for those presently produced and distributed in the United States with formulas that do not contain gluten in the form of wheat, rye, oats, and barley. Although our products are labeled in compliance with government regulations, it is always necessary to read the labels on the products to determine if the food product meets your required needs. Parents and individuals with food allergies and/or food intolerances are responsible for reading the label of all products that they intend to use regardless of how the product is represented on this site. If you have any questions, please call our Consumer Response representatives at 1-800-621-3505.