But my daughter says it's not safe because there's not enough heat to kill the bacteria. A. Of the 45 million turkeys that will be eaten on Thanksgiving Day, many will have been contaminated with bacteria during the preparation. A lot is said about this during the holidays. F and 140 o F for too long. And before you know it, you have an army of bacteria cells, armed with heat-resistant toxins, infesting your feast.
F sets up just such a breeding ground.
F. This is hot enough to take care of the bacteria. 165 o F in the stuffing. The juices should be clear not pink. Never do it on the kitchen counter. To thaw the bird in the refrigerator, you have to plan ahead.