turkey

[emailer]

When  bought from a butchers, what is the longest amount of time a 20 lb turkey can be kept in the fridge without being either frozen or cooked?  If we wanted one for the 27th December, what is the latest date we could buy it (bearing in mind how long it will take to defrost, we are reluctant to freeze it)?

[archbishop]

So you are buying it fresh,yes? Check with the butcher when it was killed. A Turkey will keep quite well about a week from date of slaughter.

[Adrienne K]

If you use a decent butcher, he could tell you. Also, Sainsbury and Waitrose are as good as anyone for turkeys, and they'll be dated. You can pick one up on Christmas Eve always, but order it in advance if you want to be on the safe side.