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You’ve got a beautiful turkey ready for the oven, but you’re staring at those plastic leg holders and wondering – can I just leave them on? They’re holding those legs together so nicely, but you’re also concerned about the safety of cooking plastic with your food. Rest assured, the good news is that those plastic leg holders, also known as "hock locks," are generally safe to cook with.

Is it Safe to Cook a Turkey with the Plastic Leg Holder?

Those little plastic leg holders are designed to keep your turkey looking neat and tidy during processing and shipping. They’re typically made from a heat-resistant plastic that’s specifically approved for food use. Most manufacturers, like Volk Enterprises, who makes "Handi-Clamps," even advertise that their leg holders can withstand oven temperatures up to 500°F.

The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension also confirms that the plastic is heat-resistant and safe for cooking. They even note that the plastic leg holders are "most often made of heat resistant materials and can be left on during the cooking process."

While the plastic is safe, some people still feel hesitant about cooking with it. There are always concerns about potential leaching of plastic into food, but in this case, the risks are minimal. The FDA has strict regulations for food-grade plastics, and the manufacturers of leg holders ensure that their products meet those standards.

So, to answer your question directly – yes, it’s generally safe to cook a turkey with the plastic leg holder on. However, there are a few reasons why you might want to remove it before cooking.

Why You Might Want to Remove the Plastic Leg Holder

While it’s safe to leave the leg holder on, it’s often recommended to remove it for a few reasons:

• Easier access to the cavity: The leg holder can obstruct access to the cavity, making it difficult to stuff the turkey or remove any giblets that might be included.
• More even cooking: Trussing the legs with the leg holder can prevent heat from reaching the joints, making the legs take longer to cook. This can lead to the breast becoming overcooked while the legs remain underdone.
• Better browning and crisping: Removing the leg holder allows the legs to spread out, allowing for better browning and crisping during roasting.

How to Remove the Plastic Leg Holder

Removing the leg holder is a simple process. You can typically just cut the plastic where it’s secured to the turkey and then pull it free. Most manufacturers provide clear instructions on how to remove their leg holders, which you can find on their website or packaging.

Alternative Methods for Trussing a Turkey

If you prefer to keep your turkey trussed, but don’t want to cook with the plastic leg holder, you can always use a traditional method. Tying the legs together with string or twine is a classic technique for holding the legs in place during cooking. There are also specialized cooking racks designed for holding a turkey in place, which can help to achieve even cooking.

Cooking a Turkey without a Leg Holder

Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a leg holder or not comes down to personal preference. If you choose to remove it, remember to make sure that the turkey cooks evenly. Using a meat thermometer is a good way to ensure that the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

FAQs

What are the leg holders made of?

Leg holders are typically made of heat-resistant plastic that is certified for food use.

How hot can the leg holders get?

The leg holders are designed to withstand oven temperatures up to 500°F, but it’s always a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Will the leg holders melt in the oven?

No, the leg holders are made of heat-resistant plastic and will not melt in a conventional oven.

Can I reuse the leg holders?

While some manufacturers claim their leg holders are reusable, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard them after use.

What are the best ways to cook a turkey without a leg holder?

There are many ways to cook a turkey without a leg holder, including roasting, frying, grilling, and smoking. Each method has its unique benefits and drawbacks.

Conclusion

Cooking a turkey can be a delightful and rewarding experience. Whether you choose to leave the plastic leg holder on or remove it, the most important thing is to cook your turkey safely and enjoy the delicious results.

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If you have any further questions about cooking turkey or other culinary techniques, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below! We love to hear from our readers and are always happy to share our knowledge.