St. Louis, MO – Many Missouri 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 contributing to a statewide rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, the day after Thanksgiving routinely sees an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy meals can cause discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food that sits out too long remain the most common causes of post-holiday illness across Missouri.
Large turkeys pose a well-known challenge. The thickest sections—deep in the breast and thigh—often heat unevenly and may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outside appears done. Families attempting to avoid a dry turkey sometimes remove it early, unintentionally increasing the risk of exposure to bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both commonly linked to undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling is another major factor. Missouri’s Thanksgiving buffets, potluck-style gatherings, and long family visits often leave food out at room temperature for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for over two hours, bacteria multiply quickly. Common organisms tied to food left out too long include Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both known to cause rapid-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all foods to 165°F, and drinking plenty of fluids if symptoms develop. Severe vomiting, dehydration, high fever, or symptoms lasting more than 24 hours should be evaluated by a medical professional.
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.
