By: Katie Burns   Date: 11/23/09

Have you ever wondered how and how long to thaw your frozen turkey?  Or perhaps you’re more concerned what the proper temperature is for the turkey?  Or maybe you just want to know how long you can hold on to those leftovers?  Luckily there are several online resources available to help you with those important food safety questions.

The Partnership for Food Safety Education (PFSE) recently unveiled a new Web site with these answers and more at Holiday Food Safety.org.  The Web site provides everything you need to have an organized and safe holiday meal, including activities for kids, shopping lists, and a countdown checklist!

Other helpful web sites with food safety tips and resources include www.fda.gov/food  and www.foodsafety.gov. 

PFSE is one of many public and private groups including the International Food Information Council Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)/Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that work on outreach and education of consumers around food safety.

With all the distractions over the holidays, it’s easy to take shortcuts when it comes to preparing your food safely, but remember: foodborne bacteria never take a holiday.  No matter what you’re making this holiday season, be sure to keep four simple steps in mind to be food safe:  Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill.  Here’s wishing you and your family a happy and safe holiday season!