Poultry
How long does a whole turkey last in the fridge?
A fresh whole turkey holds 1–2 days in the fridge — buy it two days out at most, or buy frozen and thaw on a schedule.
How long does it keep?
| Fridge, from purchase | 1–2 days |
|---|---|
| Freezer, from purchase | 12 months |
| Safe minimum temp | 165°F |
Can you freeze turkey? YES, FREEZE IT →
Can it sit out?
Raw turkey is perishable — the FSIS 2-hour rule applies.
Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).
How to tell if raw turkey has gone bad
- A sour smell from the cavity
- Slick, slimy skin
- Gray, discolored patches
When in doubt, throw it out.
Frozen, it keeps 12 months — fridge-thaw about a day per 4 to 5 pounds, so a 16-pounder needs most of a week’s notice.
Quick answers
How long does a whole turkey last in the fridge?
A fresh whole turkey holds 1–2 days in the fridge — buy it two days out at most, or buy frozen and thaw on a schedule.
Can you freeze raw turkey?
A whole turkey is good for 12 months in the freezer, so buying the bird whenever it’s cheapest is sound — bone-in breast halves get 9 months.
How long can raw turkey sit out?
The FSIS 2-hour rule applies to raw turkey. Perishable food left at room temperature for more than 2 hours should be thrown out — 1 hour if it’s 90°F or hotter (a picnic, a hot car, a summer kitchen).