Ground turkey is affordable and versatile, but it also raises the question: What exactly is it made of? With whole cuts like legs, wings, and breasts, you can clearly identify what part of the animal youre about to put in your mouth. With the shapeless mass that is ground meat, you cant be so sure. Products made from ground meats have been the subject of much scrutiny in recent years. People speak in grisly tones about what processed meats are made of. They retch at the mention of chicken nuggets. Its true that some of these items have been found to include ground bones, feet, and blood. Many Americans have a negative gut reaction to these words, and even though all of those things are actually fine to consume, its unsettling to feel like food manufacturers are hiding something from you. Thankfully, store-bought ground turkey isnt so mysterious.
Ground turkey is typically made from thighs and drumsticks. You can sometimes find ground turkey breast, usually labeled as such, but this is more expensive. You shouldnt worry about manufacturers hiding any bones or internal organs in there because its not legal to do so. USDA regulations state, “Ground poultry can contain only muscle meat and skin with attached fat in natural proportions.” Additional fillers, such as giblets, are not permitted. Some people might still be put off by the idea that ground meat is made from the cheapest cuts, but when it comes to poultry, expensive doesnt equal better.
Ground turkey has become a kitchen staple for many home cooks and professional chefs alike. Its versatility, affordability, and nutritional value make it a go-to protein choice. But with that shapeless mass in the grocery store meat case, it’s natural to wonder – what exactly is ground turkey made of?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about ground turkey, from its composition to how its produced.
The Meat – Dark Meat Dominates
The majority of ground turkey is made from dark meat, specifically the thighs and drumsticks of the turkey. This may come as a surprise, as white turkey meat is often perceived as more premium. However, when it comes to flavor and texture, nothing beats dark meat. Its higher fat content keeps it juicy and prevents the ground turkey from drying out during cooking.
Ground turkey made from dark turkey meat provides a rich, meaty flavor that stands up wonderfully in dishes like chili, meatballs, burgers, and more. The dark meat contributes plenty of moisture, while the skin adds flavor.
Going Lean with Ground Turkey Breast
While dark meat makes up most ground turkey you can also find ground turkey breast. This type of ground turkey comes exclusively from the turkey’s breast meat. Naturally low in fat and calories ground turkey breast is a leaner alternative to standard ground turkey.
However, with decreased fat comes decreased moisture. Dishes made with ground turkey breast can often turn out drier than those made with fattier dark meat blends. The breast meat also has a more subtle flavor.
If you’re looking for an ultra-lean option, ground turkey breast is a great choice. Just keep in mind that the lower fat content affects the taste and texture.
Fat Content – Understanding the Numbers
Ground turkey is available in a range of fat-to-lean ratios. Packages are often labeled with numbers such as “93/7” or “85/15.” These refer to the percentages of lean meat versus fat. For example, “93/7” indicates 93% lean meat and 7% fat.
Here are some common ratios you’ll see:
- 99/1 – Extremely lean
- 96/4 – Very lean
- 93/7 – Lean
- 90/10 – Medium fat
- 85/15 – Higher fat
Choosing the right fat percentage depends on your recipe needs. For juicy burgers, opt for 85/15 or 90/10. For healthier dishes like chili or meatballs, go for 93/7 or leaner. The leaner the grind, the drier the end result.
What About Bones, Organs, and Other “Hidden” Parts?
Here’s some good news – you don’t have to worry about any unsavory additions like bones, organs or feet hiding in your ground turkey. USDA regulations strictly prohibit including those elements in commercially sold ground poultry.
Ground turkey can only contain muscle meat, skin, and fat in their natural proportions. Any additional fillers or additives are not permitted.
Grinding Your Own Lets You Control the Blend
While buying pre-packaged ground turkey is convenient, grinding your own allows for total control over the ingredients. You can select the exact turkey cuts – like breast meat, thighs, or a mix – and tailor the fat ratio to your liking.
With a meat grinder attachment for a stand mixer or a dedicated electric meat grinder, grinding turkey at home is easy. And you’ll get freshly ground meat with no mystery ingredients.
Other Factors to Consider When Buying Ground Turkey
-
Freshness – Look for ground turkey that is vibrantly pink in color and not past its sell-by date.
-
Additives – Some contain salt, spices, or other flavorings. Check the label if avoiding additives.
-
Organic – Choose organic if you prefer poultry raised without antibiotics or hormones.
The Takeaway – A Flavorful, Versatile Meat
While ground turkey was once relegated to “better-for-you” status, its incredible versatility as an ingredient has been realized. This flavorful meat shines in classic dishes from meatballs to sliders and tacos.
Made primarily from juicy dark meat with a bit of skin and fat, standard ground turkey offers moisture, richness, and bold flavor. Or go lean with ground turkey breast. However you grind it, ground turkey is an affordable and handy kitchen staple.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/ground-turkey-burritos-with-refried-beans-3057269-step-02-9eccfec7a687462da7b215bce96ea8f7.jpg)
Dark meat in ground turkey is a great thing
White poultry meat is more expensive than dark meat, but the reasoning behind this is arbitrary. Americans overvalue white meat based on the idea that leaner meats are automatically healthier than fattier meats. This ideology came with the anti-fat fervor that swept the U.S. in the second half of the 20th century. Fat makes you gain weight, so the reasoning went. However, contemporary studies have shown that the reality is far more complex.
Most of the fat in turkey is unsaturated, which is actually beneficial. However, the addition of skin to ground turkey blends does raise their saturated fat content as compared to skinless cuts. Many have also touted the high protein content of white meat, but in actuality, its barely higher than dark meat. White meat is rich in vitamins and minerals, but so is dark meat. Their nutritional differences have been widely misunderstood.
Youd be hard-pressed to find any professional chef that prefers white meat to dark meat. Dark meat is juicy and tender while having a far richer flavor. White meat is less flavorful, and its near-total lack of fat leads it to dry out quickly.
USDA Ground Turkey From Bone In Drums
FAQ
Is ground turkey healthy?
Is ground turkey meat processed?
Which is healthier, ground turkey or chicken?
Is ground turkey made from turkey breast?
What is ground turkey?
Ground turkey, or minced turkey, is a mixture of dark and light turkey meat with remaining skin and visible fat processed together until a “ground” form emerges. The turkey meat, skin, and fat is taken off the bone and processed with additives.
What are the health benefits of ground turkey?
Ground turkey has multiple benefits. It is a good source of minerals, and B vitamins, rich in proteins, low in fat and it is lower in calories than common turkey.
What are the different types of ground turkey?
White meat, dark meat, 80/20, 93/7, fresh, frozen, patties, sausage, ground turkey can come in so many different options it can be confusing. First of all, ground turkey can be either white or dark meat. The leaner options (99% lean) will be made with all (or mostly) white (breast) meat.
How much fat is in a ground turkey?
Most ground turkey is made from a combination of light and dark meat, coming in around 7% fat. Very lean ground turkey is made from turkey breast and can contain as little as 1% fat. First, let’s compare one of the more common varieties of ground beef available—70% lean meat, 30% fat—with ground turkey, which comes in at 93% lean meat, 7% fat.