Defrost Turkey. Use turkey within 4 days after thawing. When thawing a turkey in the refrigerator allow 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4 to 5 pounds of bird according to the US.
A 16-pound bird will take 8 hours to thaw. The size of your turkey will depend on how long it takes to defrost completely but as a rough guide allow about 24hrs for every 2kg of turkey. Use turkey within 4 days after thawing.
Since bacteria can grow at temperatures that are above 8C and below 63C your fridge is the best place to ensure that the defrosting bird does not enter this danger zone.
If your turkey doesnt come with thawing instructions on the packaging then a good rule of thumb is that it takes 12 hours per one kg. Make sure not to thaw your turkey on the kitchen counter where it could be contaminated with bacteria. Check the pack instructions to be sure but an approximate thawing guide is 10-12 hours per kilogram in a fridge at 4C. 24 hours of defrosting time for every 4 to 5 pounds of bird.