Turkey Bacon — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 6, 2024
Turkey bacon nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 217 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 2 g | 0.73% |
| Fiber | 0 g | - |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 0 | - |
| Protein | 15 g | 30% |
| Sodium | 1300 mg | 56.52% |
| Total Fat | 17 g | 21.79% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
15 g
🧀 Good Protein Content
Turkey bacon facts & tips
Health benefits
- High in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
- Lower in fat and calories compared to traditional pork bacon, making it a healthier option for weight management and heart health.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, zinc, and selenium, which support overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- High sodium content in most commercial turkey bacon, which can contribute to hypertension and increased cardiovascular risks when consumed frequently.
- Potential for nitrates and nitrites used in curing turkey bacon, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer.
- High fat content particularly in turkey bacon made from dark meat or skin, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Low nutrient density as turkey bacon is typically processed, offering limited vitamins or minerals compared to whole, unprocessed turkey meat.
- Potential for artificial additives such as preservatives, flavorings, or colorings in some commercial turkey bacon, which may cause adverse reactions in sensitive individuals.
How to choose turkey bacon
Turkey bacon should have a consistent color and texture, with visible meat stripes. The packaging should be vacuum-sealed to keep the bacon fresh and prevent oxidation.
Avoid turkey bacon that has a slimy texture or discoloration, signs that it may be spoiled. Packages that are bloated or have been compromised should also be avoided, as they suggest improper handling or storage.
How to store turkey bacon
Turkey bacon should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally in its original packaging or an airtight container. Proper refrigeration keeps it fresh and flavorful for up to a week. Keeping it tightly sealed is essential.
Air exposure can cause turkey bacon to spoil quickly. Avoid leaving it uncovered and always reseal the packaging tightly. Proper storage ensures it remains fresh and safe to eat, preserving its flavor and texture.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Turkey bacon can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator once opened. Unopened, it can last for 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, turkey bacon can be frozen for up to 6 months. Proper storage helps maintain its flavor and quality, ensuring it's always ready for a quick meal.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover turkey bacon can be used in a variety of savory and flavorful dishes. Chop it up and add to salads, wraps, or sandwiches for a quick and easy topping, or mix it into a pasta dish with a creamy or tomato-based sauce. Turkey bacon is also great when used as a topping for pizzas, flatbreads, or baked potatoes.
Use turkey bacon in a breakfast scramble with eggs, cheese, and vegetables, or mix it into a casserole or quiche for added flavor. If you have a lot of turkey bacon, consider making a batch of turkey bacon-wrapped appetizers by wrapping the bacon around vegetables, shrimp, or cheese and baking until crispy. Turkey bacon can also be crumbled and used as a garnish for soups, stews, or chowders, or mixed into a stuffing with breadcrumbs, herbs, and vegetables. For a quick snack, enjoy turkey bacon with cheese and crackers, or pair it with fresh fruit for a light and satisfying treat.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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