Newark, NJ – Many New Jersey 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 the increase in stomach illness reports across the state.
According to the New Jersey Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving often brings a rise in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While heavy or late-night eating can cause discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food left out too long remain the leading causes of post-holiday illness.
Large turkeys, commonly served at Thanksgiving, are difficult to cook evenly. The thickest parts of the bird—deep in the breast and thigh—may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the exterior appears done. Families aiming to keep the turkey moist sometimes remove it early, unintentionally raising the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both frequently associated with poultry that hasn’t cooked thoroughly.
Improper leftover handling presents another major risk. New Jersey’s Thanksgiving gatherings, potlucks, and buffet-style meals often lead to food sitting out for hours. Once dishes remain in the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria multiply rapidly. Organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus—commonly linked to food left out too long—can cause fast-onset vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all dishes to 165°F, and staying hydrated if symptoms appear. 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.
