Is the ground turkey still edible if it was thawing in refrigerator and broke overnight?

* Bacteria Growth: When meat thaws, bacteria can start to grow rapidly, especially at room temperature. Breaking overnight means the turkey likely reached a temperature where bacteria could multiply significantly.

* Cross-Contamination: The broken package could have exposed the turkey to other foods in your refrigerator, potentially contaminating them.

What to do:

* Discard the ground turkey: It's best to be safe and throw it away.

* Clean the refrigerator: Thoroughly clean the refrigerator area where the turkey was thawing, especially if any juices spilled. Use hot, soapy water and a disinfectant.

To prevent this in the future:

* Thaw safely: Thaw ground turkey in the refrigerator (not at room temperature) or in a cold water bath.

* Keep meat separate: Store ground turkey in its original packaging, sealed tightly, on a lower shelf in the refrigerator.

* Check the temperature: Ensure your refrigerator is set at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Always prioritize food safety and err on the side of caution.