TAZEWELL COUNTY ( 25News Now ) - One of the biggest undertakings when preparing for Thanksgiving dinner is the intricate process of defrosting a turkey.

According to the Tazewell County Health Department, if a turkey is not thawed correctly, it can become contaminated by foodborne illnesses such as salmonella.

J.D. Raucci, the Tazewell County Health Department’s communications specialist, said the two best ways to thaw a turkey are in the refrigerator or under running water.

When using a refrigerator, the temperature of the refrigerator should be 41 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. The turkey should be allowed to thaw for 24 hours for every four to five pounds it weighs.

For example, a 20-pound turkey would take four to five days to defrost.

The turkey should also be stored at the botto

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