Is There a Recall on Turkey Meat? What You Need to Know

Turkey is a popular meat that many people enjoy, especially around the holidays. However, in recent years there have been some high-profile recalls of turkey products due to contamination with salmonella bacteria. So is there currently a recall on turkey meat? Let’s take a closer look

A History of Turkey Recalls

There have been several significant turkey recalls over the past few years due to salmonella concerns

• In 2018, Jennie-O Turkey Store recalled over 91,000 pounds of raw ground turkey products after a salmonella outbreak was linked to the products. The CDC reported 164 cases of illness from 35 states related to this outbreak.

• Also in 2018, Butterball recalled over 78,000 pounds of raw ground turkey products due to potential salmonella contamination. No illnesses were reported in relation to this recall.

• In late 2022, Pennsylvania-based Plainville Brands recalled over 28,000 pounds of ground turkey products after a sample tested positive for salmonella. At least 28 people were reported ill in connection with this outbreak across 12 states.

So there is clearly a history of contamination issues with ground turkey products leading to high-profile recalls. The most recent was the Plainville Brands recall in late 2022.

Is There a Current Turkey Recall?

As of February 2023, there are no active recalls of turkey products due to salmonella or other contamination. The last public health alert for turkey was issued in November 2022 for ready-to-eat turkey and pork products after a listeria outbreak.

So while there have been notable turkey recalls in recent years, there are no current active recalls or public health alerts impacting turkey meat. However, it’s always important to stay updated on the latest recall information.

How to Stay Up to Date on Recalls

Here are some tips to stay current on any recalls of turkey or other meat products:

• Check the USDA FSIS site regularly: The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service lists all current recalls and public health alerts. Check their site regularly at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls for any new recalls.

• Follow social media accounts: The USDA FSIS and CDC social media accounts frequently post recall notices. Follow them on Twitter and Facebook.

• Sign up for email alerts: Many grocery chains offer email alerts about recalled products sold in their stores. Sign up for alerts from stores where you purchase turkey.

• Keep turkey packaging: Hang onto product labels and packaging so you can check them against any recalled products.

• Report illnesses: If you or someone you know becomes ill after eating turkey, report it to public health officials as it may indicate an outbreak.

Safe Handling of Turkey

To protect yourself from illness, proper handling and cooking of turkey is important:

• Refrigerate promptly after purchase and use ground turkey within 1-2 days.

• Wash hands and surfaces after working with raw turkey. Avoid cross-contamination.

• Cook ground turkey to an internal temp of 165°F. Use a food thermometer to verify doneness.

• Do not eat raw or undercooked turkey products.

Following safe food handling practices can help prevent turkey-related foodborne illnesses like salmonella.

Can You Still Eat Turkey?

There are currently no active turkey recalls or public health alerts. Salmonella outbreaks related to turkey appear to be isolated incidents, not an industry-wide issue. So yes, you can still safely eat turkey products by following proper storage, handling and cooking guidelines.

Many people enjoy turkey meat regularly without issue. But stay vigilant about recalls and be extra careful when handling and preparing raw turkey at home. Following safe food prep steps, cooking to proper temperatures, and staying updated on recalls can help keep your holiday feasts and everyday meals safe.

So is there a current recall on turkey meat? Not at this time. But stay tuned to food safety sites for any alerts or recalls that may be issued. With care and caution, you can continue to enjoy delicious and nutritious turkey confidently.