If your turkey is frozen you should check the guidance on the packaging well in advance. This will ensure you allow enough time to fully defrost it in the fridge before cooking it.
A typical large turkey weighing 6-7kg can take up to 4 days to fully defrost in the fridge. If your turkey is not fully defrosted before cooking, it may not cook all the way through. This means harmful bacteria could survive the cooking process.
Remember:
❄️Do not defrost your turkey at room temperature. Defrost it in the fridge.
❄️To avoid cross-contamination always defrost your turkey in a container large enough to catch any juices.
For more information about cooking your turkey this Christmas click here.
Source: Food Standards Agency.