Ground Turkey vs. Ground Beef: Are You Really Making the Healthy Choice?

If you're like any American who has jumped on the healthy food choices bandwagon, you’d probably agree when I say that ground turkey is a healthier substitute for ground beef. But what if I told you that you could be wrong? 

Looking into the facts

Much like the typical grocery shopper, I’m sure most of you don’t stop to look at the nutrition facts when picking out your meats. You’ve been told turkey is leaner than beef by countless people, so there’s no need to question it. Wrong. According to the Beef Nutrition Organization, if you check the nutrition label on some ground turkey packages you may find that in comparison the pack of beef is more nutritious. 

With this comparison, you can clearly see that  the ground beef has less fat, less cholesterol, and contains more protein (which is one of the main reasons we consume meat) and vitamins than the turkey.

Choosing turkey that's healthy 

So you may be thinking, "Well I still would rather use turkey as a substitute for beef in my meals." Have no fear, this is still possible. It's just important to know that you have to be conscious of the labels on your meat. Look for organic turkey meat. If you can get it, "pasture raised" turkey would most likely be the best choice as the turkeys are raised in an adequate space. Instead of buying your meat at a large supermarket, try local organic grocers. Yes, you'll have to go the extra inch to get it but your body will thank you for the healthy choice.