Turkey bacon is often praised as healthier than pork bacon. While it does contain less fat and fewer calories, it’s still highly processed. It may also contain ingredients that aren’t ideal for health if eaten in large amounts.
To make turkeu bacon, finely chopped turkey mixed with seasoning is shaped into bacon-like strips.
This article reviews the nutritional profile of turkey bacon, determining whether it’s truly a healthier choice.
To make it, ground or chop turkey meat, add seasonings and preservatives, and then press the mixture into strips that resemble bacon (1)
Some manufacturers even use stripes of light and dark meat to mimic the look of traditional bacon pieces.
You can cook it the same way as traditional bacon. It’s typically pan-fried, microwaved or baked in the oven until golden and crispy.
Here’s a comparison of the nutrient content of one microwaved slice of turkey and pork bacon (2, 3):
Because turkey is leaner than pork belly, turkey bacon contains fewer calories and less fat than pork bacon.
Since both products are made from animal proteins, they are comparatively good providers of minerals like phosphorus, zinc, and selenium as well as B vitamins.
Nevertheless, since bacon is typically consumed in small serving sizes, none of the vitamins and minerals contained in a turkey bacon slice surpass 2010% of the daily value (DV).
Additionally, unless it is marked as “no sugar added,” most bacon, whether made from pork or turkey, contains added sugar. ”.
Preservatives, particularly nitrates or nitrites, are also present in turkey and pork bacon products and help to prolong the shelf life of the meat as well as improve its flavor (4).
Since natural or organic products aren’t allowed to use artificial preservatives, celery powder, a naturally occurring source of nitrates, is frequently used in their place (5)
Turkey bacon can be a good fit for some people, especially those with special dietary needs.
So you’re curious about the calorie count of two slices of turkey bacon? You’ve come to the right place! We’ll delve into the nutritional details of this popular breakfast side, analyzing its calorie content and other essential information.
Let’s get straight to the point: Two slices of turkey bacon from The Original Pancake House clock in at a modest 90 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option compared to other breakfast meats like sausage or bacon
But wait, there’s more to the story than just the calorie count! Let’s break down the nutritional profile of turkey bacon to understand its impact on your diet.
Macronutrient Breakdown:
- Fat: 5 grams (3.5 grams saturated fat)
- Protein: 10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram (0 grams sugar)
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sodium: 340 milligrams
What does this mean for you?
- The fat content: The fat in turkey bacon is primarily monounsaturated and polyunsaturated, considered “good fats” that can benefit heart health. However, the saturated fat content is something to keep an eye on, especially if you’re watching your cholesterol.
- The protein content: Turkey bacon is a good source of protein, which helps build and maintain muscle mass and keeps you feeling full.
- The carbohydrate content: With minimal carbs and no sugar, turkey bacon fits well into low-carb and ketogenic diets.
- The sodium content: The sodium content in two slices of turkey bacon is relatively high. Be mindful of your overall sodium intake, especially if you have high blood pressure.
Calorie Burn Time:
Curious how long you’d need to exercise to burn off those 90 calories? Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Running: 10 minutes
- Biking: 12 minutes
- Walking: 18 minutes
- Swimming: 15 minutes
Comparing Turkey Bacon to Other Breakfast Meats:
Let’s see how turkey bacon stacks up against its breakfast counterparts:
| Meat (2 slices) | Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turkey bacon | 90 | 5g | 10g | 1g | 340mg |
| Pork bacon | 120 | 8g | 7g | 0g | 400mg |
| Sausage | 160 | 12g | 8g | 0g | 540mg |
As you can see, turkey bacon has the lowest calorie count and fat content compared to pork bacon and sausage. It also boasts a higher protein content.
The Bottom Line:
Two slices of turkey bacon from The Original Pancake House are a relatively low-calorie and protein-rich breakfast option. However, it’s important to consider the sodium content and saturated fat, especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Additional Resources:
- MyNetDiary: For more detailed nutritional information on turkey bacon and other foods, check out MyNetDiary’s extensive food database.
- FatSecret: This website provides a comprehensive breakdown of the calorie and nutrient content of various foods, including turkey bacon.
Remember, moderation is key! Enjoy your turkey bacon as part of a balanced and healthy diet.
A good option for those who don’t eat pork
Some people abstain from eating pork, such as those who have intolerances or allergies to it, as well as those who do so for health or religious reasons.
If you avoid pork, turkey bacon can be a good substitute.
Many people like the smoky, salty, meaty flavor of turkey bacon even though it doesn’t have the exact same texture and taste as pork bacon.
While turkey bacon can be a good option for some, be aware of the following potential downsides.
Fewer calories and fat than pork bacon
Turkey bacon has roughly 25% fewer calories and 35% less saturated fat than pork bacon (2, 3).
This makes it a popular choice for people watching their calorie or fat intake.
Nevertheless, each slice has thirty calories, more than half of which are from fat, making it a relatively high-calorie meal.
While turkey bacon may be lower in calories than pork bacon, you should still eat it in moderation.
Is Turkey Bacon Healthy? Nutrition, Calories and More
FAQ
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