How to Buy and Store Turkey

When buying a whole turkey, allow 1 lb (500 g) per person. In general, the larger the turkey, the better the buy since the proportion of meat to bone is higher.

When buying boneless turkey, allow 1/3 – 1/2 lb (150 - 250 g) per person.

Frozen whole turkey can be stored in its original wrapping in a chest or upright freezer with temperatures below 0°F (-18°C) for up to 1 year.

Fresh whole turkey should be placed on a tray and stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator. If the label indicates a best-before date, the turkey must be cooked before this date. If there is not a best-before date on the wrapping, the turkey must be cooked within two days of purchase. The freezing of fresh whole turkey is not recommended as there is a concern for both food safety and quality.