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Should You Rinse a Raw Turkey Before Cooking It?

HowLongFresh ExpertJul 24, 2025

Overview

No — according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it’s not a good idea to wash or rinse a raw turkey before cooking it. The problem is that when you rinse raw turkey, bacteria present in the poultry’s raw juices can spread around the kitchen and contaminate everything else that’s nearby — including other foods, kitchen utensils, and countertops. When handling raw turkey, be sure to wash hands, utensils, the sink, and anything else that comes in contact with raw turkey and its juices with soap and water.Long-Lasting Produce Stock up and enjoy Your Questions Answered Steak that's changed color

This information applies to: beef, chicken, cranberry, eggs, ground beef, hamburger, pie, potatoes, salad, shrimp, steak, stuffing, turkey

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