Los Angeles, CA – Many California 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 an increase in stomach illness reports statewide.

According to the California Department of Public Health, the day after Thanksgiving routinely brings a surge in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy meals can cause temporary discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food left out for extended periods remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness across the state.

Large turkeys—especially the jumbo birds popular in many California households—are difficult to cook evenly. The thickest parts of the bird, deep inside the breast and thigh, often fail to reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the exterior looks fully cooked. Families trying to avoid a dry turkey sometimes remove it early, unintentionally increasing exposure to bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both strongly associated with undercooked poultry.

Improper leftover handling adds further risk. California’s Thanksgiving buffets, Friendsgiving gatherings, and warm-weather outdoor meals often leave dishes sitting out for hours. Once food remains in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria multiply rapidly. Organisms like Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both linked to food left out too long, can cause rapid-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.

Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all dishes to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms develop. Severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 24 hours should prompt medical evaluation.

ADDITIONAL SAFETY TIPS

✓ Check leftovers: Discard anything left out for more than 2 hours.
✓ Reheat properly: Warm 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.