How many people suffer from food poisoning on Thanksgiving due to incorrectly cooked turkeys?

It's impossible to give you an exact number for how many people suffer from food poisoning on Thanksgiving due to incorrectly cooked turkeys. Here's why:

* No Centralized Tracking: There's no specific database or organization that tracks food poisoning cases linked to Thanksgiving turkey specifically.

* Underreporting: Many cases of food poisoning go unreported. People might attribute their illness to something else, or they might not seek medical attention.

* Variability: The number of cases likely varies significantly from year to year, depending on factors like:

* The overall number of turkeys prepared.

* The weather, which can affect food safety practices.

* Public awareness and adherence to food safety guidelines.

However, we can say this:

* Food poisoning is a serious concern: Foodborne illnesses are a significant public health problem.

* Thanksgiving is a high-risk time: Thanksgiving is a time when many people prepare large meals with potentially hazardous foods like poultry.

* Turkey is a common culprit: Undercooked turkey is a prime source of food poisoning, particularly from Salmonella and Campylobacter bacteria.

To minimize the risk of food poisoning, follow these key food safety guidelines:

* Cook turkey to the correct internal temperature: 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

* Wash your hands thoroughly: Before and after handling raw turkey.

* Don't cross-contaminate: Keep raw turkey separate from other foods.

* Refrigerate turkey properly: Store it at 40°F (4°C) or below.

* Don't let cooked turkey sit out for too long: Refrigerate it within two hours.

By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of food poisoning and enjoy a safe and happy Thanksgiving.