Overview

• Thanksgiving leftovers, including turkey, should be refrigerated within two hours of serving and consumed within three to four days to ensure safety.
• Freezing leftovers like turkey and gravy can extend their shelf life for up to six months, but cranberry sauce does not freeze well.
• Creative recipes such as turkey stir-fry, stuffing waffles, and cranberry muffins help transform leftovers into fresh, exciting meals.
• Food waste during Thanksgiving is significant, with millions of pounds of turkey discarded annually; planning portions and repurposing scraps can help reduce this impact.
• Proper storage in airtight containers and reheating to at least 165°F are essential to maintaining food safety and preventing spoilage.