CDC Says “Don’t Wash Your Turkey”

The U.S. Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention warns anyone preparing a Turkey for their Thanksgiving dinner. “Don’t wash it.”

This is the same advice the CDC has been giving the public since 2005. The federal food safety experts explained that washing raw meats increases the risk of cross-contamination and could lead to food poisonings like salmonella and campylobacter.

“Old recipes and family cooking traditions may keep this practice going, but it can make you and your family sick,” the agency said. “Poultry juices can spread in the kitchen and contaminate other foods, utensils, and countertops.”

The CDC offered tips for handling your turkey the right way. First off, wash your hands in warm water and lather your hands for at least 20 seconds before and after handling raw turkey.

Then use a separate, designated cutting board for raw turkey. Ensure not to put cooked food or fresh produce on a plate, cutting board, or any surface that previously touched raw turkey. 

Lastly, be sure to wash cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and countertops with hot, soapy water after preparing the turkey and before you prepare the next dish.