Transcript of our Thanksgiving food safety chat

In case you missed the chat with Consumer Reports' food safety expert Urvashi Rangan, Ph.D. about Thanksgiving food preparation, the transcript is below.  She answered questions about the safe handling of the turkey and side dishes to the meaning (and value) of labels like "hormone-free," "natural," "free-range" and "certified humane."  She also addressed readers' specific concerns about the upcoming holiday meal—including what leftovers not to feed the dog.

Foodborne illnesses don't take a holiday just because we do. When you are cooking your turkey, use a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches a temperature high enough to kill bacteria. And remember to keep your cooking surfaces clean to avoid cross-contaminating foods. Happy Thanksgiving.