Whenever the holidays roll around, everyone wants to put out the perfect meal.

The New York City Department of Health is trying in their own way to help with that.

For those cooking turkey, health officials tell News 12 it’s important to wrap poultry and meat in plastic bags while shopping at the grocery store to avoid cross contamination and germs.

When thawing a turnkey, they added people should allow 24 hours for every four to five pounds to thaw out. People can also use a microwave to thaw out the bird, but with this option follow the microwave manufacturer’s instructions.

Last, the DOP acknowledged foods be refrigerated and avoid keeping them at room temperature while marinating. While raw meat or poultry is marinating, avoid tasting it.