Columbus, OH – Many Ohio 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 stored leftovers may be behind a rise in stomach illness reports.
According to the Ohio Department of Health, the day after Thanksgiving routinely brings an increase in nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, and fatigue. While overeating rich holiday foods can cause discomfort, experts say improperly cooked poultry and food left out too long are among the most common drivers of post-holiday illness across Ohio.
Large turkeys are especially difficult to cook evenly. The thickest parts of the bird—deep in the breast and thigh—often heat unevenly and may not reach the required 165°F internal temperature even when the outer sections look done. Families aiming to avoid dryness sometimes remove the turkey early, unintentionally raising the risk of bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter, both frequently associated with undercooked poultry.
Improper leftover handling adds additional risk. Ohio’s Thanksgiving buffets, potlucks, and extended family gatherings often leave food sitting out at room temperature for hours. Once dishes fall into the “danger zone” between 40°F and 140°F for more than two hours, bacteria multiply quickly. Common organisms tied to food left out too long include Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus, both known to cause sudden vomiting and stomach discomfort.
Nutrition specialists recommend discarding questionable leftovers, reheating all foods to 165°F, and staying hydrated 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.
