Doctor Shares The Cutoff Point For Leaving Holiday Dishes On The Table

Nearly 82 million individuals in the United States are set to travel during the Thanksgiving holiday season.As loved ones come together to enjoy festive meals, it's crucial to remain vigilant about foodborne illnesses, which are largely preventable with appropriate safety measures.To ensure the safety of my family's preparations, especially regarding leftovers, I consulted CNN's wellness authority, Dr. Leana Wen, an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at George Washington University. Dr. Wen previously acted as Baltimore’s health commissioner, overseeing food safety protocols.Dr. Wen explained that foodborne illnesses arise from pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, with norovirus being particularly prevalent. Symptoms typically include abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting. While most recover within 24 hours, vulnerable populations may face greater risks.To ensure safe food handling, Dr. Wen provided advice on thawing turkey and emphasized the importance of the “two-hour rule” for perishable items, while reminding hosts to monitor temperatures carefully.