Is It Safe to Eat a Turkey That Has Been Frozen for Over a Year?

Many people may hesitate to use a turkey that has been stored in the freezer for such a long period of time, but rest assured, it is indeed safe to consume. After purchasing a turkey for Christmas and receiving another as a gift, we froze one for over a year and found that it tasted perfectly fine for the next holiday celebration.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, foods that are kept constantly frozen at 0°F or lower will remain safe indefinitely[1].

Key Points to Consider

While the turkey may be safe to eat after more than a year in the freezer, it is crucial to keep a few key points in mind to ensure both safety and quality:

Proper Storage

Ensure that the turkey was stored properly in the freezer. It should be well-wrapped with no tears in the plastic covering to prevent freezer burn. Freezer burn can alter the texture and taste of the meat, making it less desirable.

Freezer Temperature

Verify that your freezer is maintaining a temperature of 0°F or lower. Most refrigerator freezing compartments can only maintain a temperature that is insufficient for long-term storage and should only be used for short-term storage (up to one month)[3].

Quality Considerations

After a year in the freezer, the quality of the turkey may be affected. Freezing can cause changes in texture and taste, potentially making the turkey less flavorful than a fresh one. However, these changes are not a health hazard but may affect the eating experience.

Thawing and Cooking

When you decide to cook the frozen turkey, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator. It is recommended to allow 24 hours of thawing time for every five pounds of turkey. Always use a food thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 180°F for safe consumption.

If you are unsure about the quality after thawing, you can perform a simple test. Simmer a small piece of the turkey, including the skin and fat, in a little water for about 10 minutes. Taste both the meat and the water. If there are any off-tastes, they will be brought out by the heat. If the turkey tastes like well-boiled turkey, it is perfectly safe to eat.

It is important to note that the main characteristic you might encounter is a slight oxidation of the turkey fat. This is the beginning of rancidity and can be detected by a soapy taste. While this is completely harmless, it can be unpleasant. Fish-oils and poultry fats, particularly turkey fat, are vulnerable to oxidation and may not have a long freezer life, but consuming them is not a health hazard.

Further Reading

For more information on freezing and storing turkey, consider checking out these resources:

It is okay to eat a turkey that's been in a deep freezer for over a... How Long Is a Frozen Turkey Good to Keep In the Freezer? How old is too old for frozen turkey - The Poultry Site

Remember, while a turkey may not be as fresh after a long freeze, it is still safe to eat and can be a great asset to your holiday meal planning.