Be sure to store leftovers following tomorrow’s Thanksgiving meals properly to avoid foodborne illness. According to Iowa Department of Public Health, once a turkey is pulled from the oven there are two hours to serve it, eat it and then refrigerate or freeze the leftovers. Bacteria that causes food poisoning can multiply on perishable food left out longer than two hours at room temperature.
It is also recommended to store leftovers in small, covered containers because it allows the food to get more cold quickly. Refrigerated cooked turkey and left over casseroles and cooked vegetables should be eaten in three to four days. Also, remember to keep refrigerators at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or slightly below.