How long can you keep a fresh turkey in the fridge before it has to be cooked?

You can safely keep a fresh, whole turkey in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before it needs to be cooked.

Here's a breakdown:

* Whole turkey: 1-2 days

* Turkey parts (breasts, legs, etc.): 1-2 days

* Ground turkey: 1-2 days

Important Notes:

* Always check the "use-by" date on the packaging. This date is a guideline for the best quality, but the turkey can still be safe to eat for a short time after this date.

* Store the turkey in the coldest part of the refrigerator, ideally below 40°F (4°C).

* Do not refreeze a thawed turkey. Once thawed, it should be cooked as soon as possible.

* If you're unsure about the safety of your turkey, err on the side of caution and throw it away.

If you're planning to cook a turkey in the future, it's best to buy it as close to the cooking date as possible.