Is Butterball Turkey Really 100% Dairy-Free?

Butterball turkey has become a staple for many families’ holiday meals However, with food allergies and dietary restrictions becoming more common, many people wonder – is Butterball turkey actually dairy-free? Let’s take a detailed look at what’s in Butterball turkey, alternatives for dairy-free diets, and how to safely enjoy Butterball turkey even with dietary restrictions.

An Overview of Butterball Turkey

Butterball turkeys are a hugely popular brand, known for providing juicy, delicious turkey perfect for celebrations and meals. Their turkeys contain no added hormones or steroids and are minimally processed with no artificial ingredients.

Butterball offers whole frozen turkeys as well as turkey cuts, deli meats, sausage, and more Their products can be found in most major grocery stores

The Big Question: Is Butterball Turkey Dairy-Free?

Here is the simple answer that many people want to know – yes, Butterball turkey is 100% dairy-free. Butterball turkeys contain no milk, lactose, casein, whey, or any other dairy-derived ingredients.

Butterball turkeys contain just three basic ingredients:

• Turkey meat
• Water
• Sea salt

No dairy adds flavor, texture, or any other elements to Butterball turkeys. This makes Butterball products safe for people with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, and those following dairy-free diets like paleo or vegan.

Why Butterball Turkey is Dairy-Free

Butterball turkeys contain no dairy for a few key reasons:

Simplicity – Turkey on its own has a delicious flavor and texture. No heavy additions or processing is needed. Keeping turkeys simple with just turkey meat, water, and salt allows the natural taste to shine.

Food Allergies – Many people have dairy allergies or intolerances. Keeping turkeys dairy-free allows more people to enjoy them without health issues.

Dietary Lifestyles – Diets like paleo, Whole30, and vegan are dairy-free. Offering dairy-free turkey allows followers of these diets to enjoy turkey.

No Benefit – Dairy does not enhance turkey’s flavor or texture enough to warrant adding it. Turkey on its own has all the components needed for a tasty product.

Are There Any Exceptions?

While standard Butterball whole turkeys and cuts contain no dairy, there are a few exceptions:

• Pre-stuffed turkeys – Some pre-stuffed Butterball turkeys may contain dairy ingredients in the stuffing. Check ingredient labels to be sure.

• Ground turkey – Some butterball ground turkey products contain small amounts of whey protein concentrate. Again, check labels.

• Deli meats – Butterball deli meats often contain dairy products like cheese. Opt for plain turkey slices if avoiding dairy.

As long as you choose plain whole turkeys or cuts, you can be certain Butterball turkey contains no dairy ingredients at all. Labels and customer service can address any questions.

Ensuring No Cross-Contamination

While Butterball turkeys contain no dairy ingredients, some facilities also process dairy items. Steps are taken to avoid cross-contamination, but there is a slight risk.

Those with severe dairy allergies may wish to contact Butterball to check details on facilities. For most people avoiding dairy, Butterball turkey remains a very safe choice with minimal cross-contamination risk.

Alternatives for Dairy-Free Diets

For those avoiding all dairy products, Butterball turkey remains an excellent choice. Some other great options include:

• Plain turkey from brands like Shady Brook Farms, Jennie-O, and Plainville Farms
• Chicken and poultry from dairy-free brands
• Beef, pork, and other meats without dairy additives
• Fish and seafood like salmon, shrimp, and tilapia
• Tofu, tempeh, and other plant-based proteins

With some easy substitutions like avocado oil for butter and coconut or almond milk instead of dairy, most recipes can be adapted to dairy-free diets.

Tips for Safely Enjoying Butterball Turkey

Here are some top tips for safely savoring Butterball turkeys, even with dairy allergies:

• Carefully read ingredient labels of whole turkeys as well as deli products, which often contain dairy.

• Consider plain turkey breasts or whole birds instead of pre-cooked, pre-seasoned items.

• Ask about manufacturing facilities if you have severe allergies and wish to avoid cross-contamination.

• Choose oil, broth, or water instead of butter or cream for basting turkeys.

• Prepare stuffing separately to control ingredients, or opt for an unstuffed turkey.

• Pair turkey with dairy-free sides like roasted veggies, salad, or rice pilaf.

With tasty Turkey and an array of delicious dairy-free sides, you can still enjoy fantastic holiday and family meals.

The Bottom Line

Butterball whole turkeys contain no dairy ingredients, making them a fantastic choice for those avoiding milk products. Just be aware of some exceptions like ground turkey, pre-stuffed birds, and deli meats that may contain dairy. With careful label reading and dairy-free preparation, Butterball turkey can be safely enjoyed by people with many different diet needs and restrictions. Bring on the turkey!