can i buy a frozen turkey now

Getting an Early Jump on Thanksgiving: When to Buy a Frozen Turkey

The holidays always seem to sneak up on us faster than expected If hosting Thanksgiving dinner is in your plans this year, you may be wondering when you should purchase your frozen turkey to make sure you’re prepared well in advance. While it may sound crazy to think about turkeys during the heat of summer, there are good reasons to consider buying your centerpiece bird earlier rather than waiting until the last minute. In this article, we’ll look at the benefits of purchasing a frozen turkey well before Thanksgiving and discuss the best times to shop for one

Why Buy a Frozen Turkey Early?

There are three key advantages to picking up a frozen turkey weeks or even months before Thanksgiving:

• Availability – Turkeys sell out extremely fast in November. Buying early guarantees you can find the size bird you need.

• Price – Turkey prices often go up the closer it gets to Thanksgiving as demand rises. Buying early can mean paying $5-10 less per turkey.

• Storage – A frozen turkey can be stored 6-12 months in a home freezer. There are no storage concerns buying one early.

With turkeys available year-round at most grocery stores, you don’t have to wait until the last minute and fight the holiday crowds to buy one.

When to Buy Your Frozen Turkey

The ideal time to purchase a frozen turkey for Thanksgiving is September through early November. Here are some more specific guidelines:

• September/October – This is a great time to buy if you want the widest selection and lowest prices. It’s early enough that you’ll avoid stock issues and pre-holiday markups.

• Early November – Turkeys will be a bit more expensive than earlier in the fall but availability should still be decent in most areas. This is the latest you’ll want to buy.

• Mid to Late November – Selection is likely to be picked over, and prices will be higher than normal. The closer to Thanksgiving it gets, the harder finding a turkey becomes. Avoid waiting this long if possible.

• December to August – You can still find frozen turkeys during these months for future holidays. Just make sure to carefully note the sell-by or use-by dates when purchasing far in advance.

Following these guidelines will ensure you find an ample selection of turkeys at the best prices. Just remember to leave yourself enough time to safely thaw your turkey in the refrigerator before Thanksgiving.

What to Look for When Buying Your Turkey

Once you’ve decided on the right time to purchase your turkey, keep these tips in mind while shopping:

• Size – Plan for 1 pound of turkey per person. A 15 lb. turkey feeds 15 people. Add a couple extra pounds if offering leftovers.

• Type – Whole turkeys are the most economical. Other options like breast halves can be easier to cook. Choose based on your meal plans.

• Brand – Popular brands like Honeysuckle White or Butterball deliver consistently juicy, flavorful meat. Or explore local farm-raised turkeys for more variety.

• Storage – Only buy turkeys that feel completely hard frozen with no soft spots. Properly frozen turkeys last a full year.

• Cost – Budget $1-$1.50 per pound for high-quality frozen turkeys, depending on brand and holiday demand.

Follow this advice to pick out the perfect turkey for your Thanksgiving feast.

Storing Your Turkey Safely at Home

Once you get your frozen turkey home, proper storage is critical. Here are some safe storage tips:

• Place immediately in a freezer set at 0°F or below. Check your owner’s manual for proper temp.

• Store turkey in original packaging until you are ready to thaw and cook. The packaging protects against freezer burn.

• Use freezer bags or foil to provide extra protection if re-packing turkey after purchase. Remove giblets first if included.

• Label package with name and purchase date so you know when to use by. Consume within one year for best quality.

• Avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Thaw only once when ready to cook so the turkey retains moisture and flavor.

Planning in Advance for a Stress-Free Feast

Preparing a delicious Thanksgiving dinner requires careful planning and perfect timing. By purchasing your frozen turkey 1-2 months early, you can check off the most challenging item on your holiday to-do list and avoid the last-minute rush. With your bird already waiting in the freezer, you can sit back and enjoy planning all the other special touches that will make Thanksgiving memorable.