If you purchase a fresh turkey for thanksgiving how long in advance can it to cook if kept refrigerated?

You can safely store a fresh turkey in the refrigerator for 1-2 days before cooking.

Here's why:

* Safety: Refrigeration slows down the growth of bacteria, keeping the turkey safe to eat.

* Thawing: If your turkey is frozen, you'll need to thaw it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days before cooking.

* Quality: While you can store it for a longer time, the quality of the turkey will start to decline after 2 days.

Important Note: Always check the "Sell By" date on the package for the freshest turkey.