Tips on Buying a Turkey

By Tom Genung

It's time to purchase that turkey. Here are some tips to remember when buying a turkey.

When it comes down to finally buying a turkey, cost and convenience will come into play when deciding between a fresh and a frozen turkey. Generally fresh turkeys will cost more than frozen turkeys due to the special handling associated with the fresh turkeys. If you've decided on buying a fresh turkey you will want to purchase it no early than two days prior to preparing it.

When purchasing a turkey make sure to inspect the packaging for any punctures or tears. Also check the labels. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) inspects turkeys for quality. The majority of turkeys sold in stores will have the USDA Grade A seal. This means that the turkey is of highest quality. Also check the "Use By" date to make sure you will not go over this date by the time you prepare your turkey.

If you are buying a fresh turkey inspect it by looking closer at it, and by feeling it. Make sure there is no discoloration to the turkey, or any signs of freezer burn. Feel the turkey making sure that parts are not frozen or starting to freeze. Also inspect the package making sure no ice crystals are forming inside.

Some turkeys are sold as basted and un-basted. A basted turkey is injected with a sodium solution to increase the juiciness of the turkey. The labeling on the package will list the basting ingredients. It is a matter of personal preference; however I would rather have more control over what goes into my turkey, so I'd choose to brine it myself. We will get into brining a turkey in a later post.

You can also buy a pre-stuffed turkey. If you want to have more control over the quality of your turkey dinner, skip the pre-stuffed turkey. It just won't be the same as making your own stuffing and stuffing it yourself.

The majority of supermarkets will be running specials on their frozen turkeys during the Thanksgiving holiday. You may want to take advantage of the special pricing and purchase another turkey for later in the year. Cooking a whole turkey shouldn't be something you only do once a year. It is a great meal anytime of year.

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