The Thanksgiving table contains many wonderful and indulgent foods from which to choose. Most Americans give themselves permission to eat larger portions and enjoy fatty and sweet treats on this day. Knowing a few facts about some traditional Thanksgiving foods will help you decide what to eat, and which foods to avoid.
Turkey Stuffing
Before each Thanksgiving, family cooks hear warnings regarding the safety of stuffing prepared inside the turkey. The innermost portion of a turkey takes the longest to cook and contains two potential threats: salmonella from raw eggs used to prepare the stuffing and other bacteria which linger on the inside of the turkey. Sarah Kagan, food editor at Epicurious.com provides two recommendations for safely preparing stuffing. The first option is to cook the stuffing, or dressing, outside of the bird, in a casserole dish. If cooks prefer to cook the stuffing inside the turkey, ensure the stuffing reaches a temperature of 165 degrees F.
Dark Turkey Meat
The Thanksgiving food wars do not end with the stuffing versus dressing debate. Another critical decision faces all Thanksgiving diners: whether to choose white meat or dark. White meat is a leaner choice for those watching their waistlines when every calorie cut counts. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, people suffering with irritable bowel syndrome should also opt for white meat, as fatty foods may irritate IBS symptoms.
Hors D'oeuvres to Avoid
Hors d'oeuvres set the mood for the family Thanksgiving. Expectant mothers need to continue to monitor their food choices, beginning with the appetizers. According to BabyCenter, to avoid listeria contamination, which is not safe for a developing fetus, pregnant women should stay away from soft cheeses and soft cheese spreads, as these may be unpasteurized. Expectant mothers should also pass on pâté and meat spreads.
Lingering Leftovers
Thanksgiving leftovers often sit on countertops and buffet tables for hours while nibbling families chat and watch football. However, food left at room temperature is a breeding ground for bacteria. To prevent contamination, BabyCenter recommends refrigerating leftovers within two hours. Keep leftovers in shallow, airtight storage containers.
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