OSDH advises on how to avoid foodborne illness this holiday season
By April HillNov 25, 2025 2:03 PM No one wants to leave after eating a homemade Thanksgiving meal feeling sick.The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) has tips to keep everyone safe from foodborne illness this year.Experts say make sure to wash hands with soap and warm water for 20 seconds before preparing food.Wash cutting boards, dishes, utensils and counter tops with hot soapy water before you go on to the next food.As for thawing the turkey, it is important to allow enough time for a frozen turkey to defrost.If a turkey is not properly thawed, the outside will be cooked before the inside and the inside might not become hot enough to destroy disease-causing bacteria.Also, refrigerate foods promptly after the meal as public health officials say cold temperatures keep most harmful bacteria from multiplying.Put leftover turkey in the refrigerator within two hours and eat within three to four days.People at the highest risk of being affected by foodborne illness are the elderly, children, individuals with a weakened immune system and pregnant women.
