As the video at right shows, some of the meat thermometers we've tested will actually talk back to you, handy for Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. But if you find yourself in a pickle as you prepare your Thanksgiving feast, call one of the hotlines below, which are staffed by experts who can field your queries.

• Butterball Turkey: 800-288-8372
• Crisco (pies): 877-367-7438
• Empire Kosher Poultry: 717-436-7055
• Fleischmann's Yeast (baking): 800-777-4959
• Foster Farms Turkey: 800-255-7227
• General Mills (baking, vegetables): 800-248-731
• King Arthur Flour Co. (baking): 802-649-3717
• Nestlé (baking): 800-637-8537
• Ocean Spray (cranberries): 800-662-3263
• Perdue (poultry): 800-473-7383
• Reynolds (turkey tips): 800-745-4000
• U.S. Department of Agriculture Meat and Poultry Hotline: 888-674-6854 

Essential information: See our advice on preparing your holiday meal. If you’re looking to replace a major appliance, read our roundup of  Black Friday specials.