For deli meat lovers, Boar’s Head is a brand that’s synonymous with quality. Their honey maple turkey breast is a customer favorite beloved for its perfect balance of savory and sweet. But with its glistening glaze and robust flavor you may wonder – can this turkey really be a healthy choice?
As a dietitian, I’m often asked if beloved foods like Boar’s Head’s honey maple turkey can be part of a nutritious diet The answer is yes, when enjoyed in moderation as part of an overall healthy lifestyle By looking at the nutrition facts and ingredients list, we can see that this turkey offers some solid nutritional benefits.
A Lean Source of Protein
One of the biggest benefits of Boar’s Head honey maple turkey is that it provides lean protein. A 2 oz serving contains 14g of protein with less than 1g of fat. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue supporting a healthy immune system and keeping you feeling full between meals.
Minimally Processed
Boar’s Head roasts their turkeys with minimal processing and no artificial ingredients. The turkey breast itself has no added hormones or steroids. This makes it a better choice than highly processed deli meats with mystery ingredients.
Flavored with Real Ingredients
The sweet maple and honey flavors come from real Vermont maple syrup and clover honey. This provides flavor without unnecessary sugars or chemical additives. The savory taste comes from a natural smoking process.
Low Sodium Compared to Other Deli Meats
With 480mg of sodium per serving, Boar’s Head honey maple turkey contains less sodium than many other cured and smoked deli meats. It can be part of a heart-healthy eating pattern as long as your overall sodium intake remains in check.
No Artificial Preservatives
You won’t find any artificial preservatives like nitrites or nitrates on the ingredients list. Boar’s Head achieves shelf-stability by roasting their turkeys in facilities that meet high food safety standards.
Certified Gluten-Free
The turkey is certified gluten-free, making Boar’s Head honey maple turkey easy to enjoy for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. It’s produced in facilities that avoid cross-contamination with gluten.
Potential Drawbacks
While this turkey has some nutritional merits, there are a few things to keep in mind. The maple syrup and honey do contain sugars and carbohydrates, so portion control is important, especially for those limiting carbs or calories. It also lacks the vitamins, minerals, and fiber found in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. As with any processed meat, eating too much can increase health risks.
Tips for Enjoying Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey
Focus on quality over quantity. Stick to the recommended 2 oz portion size. Load it up on nutrient-dense whole grain bread or lettuce leaves instead of refined white bread. Pair it with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Try mixing it into a salad for a protein boost. Avoid pairing it with other processed meats and cheeses.
Overall, Boar’s Head honey maple turkey can absolutely be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed responsibly. It provides lean protein, minimally processed ingredients, and mouthwatering flavor. Just be mindful of portions and accompany it with plenty of whole foods for a well-rounded meal. With a little balance, you can enjoy the tasty flavors of this turkey while still nourishing your body.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey
Is it vegetarian/vegan friendly?
No, Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey contains turkey, which is meat, so it is not suitable for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Does it contain any common food allergens?
Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey does not contain any major food allergens like milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, or soybeans.
What is the shelf life of the product after opening?
It is recommended to enjoy Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey within 3-5 days after opening the package. Store opened turkey in the refrigerator at 40°F or below.
Can it be eaten while pregnant?
Yes, Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey can be safely consumed during pregnancy as part of a balanced diet, but pregnant women should heat deli meats to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating to reduce risk of foodborne illness.
Does Boar’s Head use “free-range” or “cage-free” turkeys?
Boar’s Head states that their turkeys are raised in barns with space to move around freely. However, they do not make “free-range” or “cage-free” claims on their turkey products.
What is the best way to serve Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey?
This turkey tastes delicious on sandwiches, in wraps, salads, or as a protein topping for breakfast dishes. It also pairs well with cheese, crackers, apples, pears, grapes, and other fruits.
Does it need to be refrigerated before opening?
Yes, Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey should always be refrigerated at 40 °F or below for food safety prior to opening the package.
Is Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey suitable for keto or paleo diets?
It may not be suitable for strict keto or paleo diets due to containing honey and maple syrup, but can potentially be worked into some low-carb or paleo eating plans in moderation.
Where is Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey sold?
It can be found at most major grocery store deli counters that carry Boar’s Head products. Boar’s Head has an online store locator to help find nearby stores.
Does Boar’s Head have any coupons or discounts?
Boar’s Head occasionally offers new product coupons on their website. Some grocery stores may also run exclusive Boar’s Head promos. Signing up for their newsletter can provide discount offers.
At the end of the day, moderation and balance are key when enjoying deliciously flavored treats like Boar’s Head Honey Maple Turkey. Paired responsibly with nutritious whole foods, it can absolutely be part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
