(WYMT) – Thanksgiving can include lots of different foods in a big gathering of people.
With several items in the kitchen, there are some safety measures that can ensure your best experience.
Kentucky River Health District Environmentalist Kaleb Anderson said changing out or cleaning the surfaces you prepare foods on is important.
“You may use countertops, you may use cutting boards. You’re definitely gonna use some knives and utensils. You need to either change or wash those cutting boards, knives, utensils, anything between dealing with different types of food,” said Anderson.
Anderson added it is best to keep items like turkey and ham away from each other to prevent spreading bacteria.
The environmentalist said he prefers ham to be cooked to 155 degrees, but for turkey to be cooked at a higher internal temperature.
“You’re gonna be baking, roasting, in some cases frying these turkeys for hours. You’re gonna wanna make sure the internal temperature of the turkey hits 165 degrees,” said Anderson.
Anderson said leftovers should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees as well.