Burlington, VT – Many Vermonters woke up sick on Black Friday after large Thanksgiving dinners, and state health officials say food safety issues involving turkey preparation and improperly stored leftovers may be driving the rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Vermont Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving typically brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy meals and late-night eating can play a role, experts say undercooked turkey and foods left out too long are the leading contributing factors to post-holiday illness across Vermont.
Large turkeys pose a particular challenge. The deepest sections—especially the thickest parts of the breast and thigh—often cook more slowly and may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature, even when the outside looks done. Many families remove the turkey early to keep it moist, unintentionally increasing the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both common in poultry.
Improperly handled leftovers add to the risk. Thanksgiving buffets, potlucks, and long social gatherings frequently result in food sitting out at room temperature for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria can multiply quickly. Common organisms linked to food left out too long include Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both known to cause rapid-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition experts recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all dishes to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms appear. Those experiencing severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting longer than 24 hours should seek medical care.
ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS
✓ Check leftovers: Discard anything left out for more than 2 hours.
✓ Reheat properly: Heat all leftovers to 165°F before eating.
✓ Watch for symptoms: Sudden nausea, cramps, or diarrhea may indicate bacterial illness.
✓ Cook turkey fully: Verify temperature at the thickest parts of the bird.
✓ Seek care when needed: High fever, dehydration, or blood in stool warrant medical attention.
