Baltimore, MD – Many Maryland residents woke up sick on Black Friday after large Thanksgiving meals, and state health officials say food-poisoning risks tied to undercooked turkey and improperly handled leftovers may be driving a rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Maryland Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving often brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While overeating can contribute to discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and dishes left out too long are among the most common causes of post-holiday illness across Maryland.
Large turkeys are especially difficult to cook evenly. The thickest areas of the bird—deep in the breast and thigh—may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature, even when the exterior appears done. Many families remove the turkey early to keep it moist, unintentionally raising the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both linked to undercooked poultry…