Poultry
raw turkey back.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
ALSO KNOWN AS
turkey back
SERVING
CALORIES
206
PROTEIN
16.9g
CARBS
0.15g
FAT
15.4g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories206kcal—
Protein16.9g34%
Carbohydrates0.15g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0.10g0%
Total fat15.4g20%
Saturated fat2.7g14%
Trans fat0.29g—
Cholesterol84mg28%
Water66.9g—
MINERALS
Sodium157mg7%
Potassium185mg4%
Calcium14mg1%
Iron0.78mg4%
Magnesium17mg4%
Phosphorus159mg13%
Zinc2.0mg19%
Copper0.09mg10%
Manganese0.01mg0%
Selenium18.1µg33%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A38µg4%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.60µg3%
Vitamin E0.11mg1%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.05mg4%
Riboflavin (B2)0.19mg15%
Niacin (B3)4.9mg31%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.78mg16%
Vitamin B60.33mg19%
Folate (B9)5.0µg1%
Vitamin B121.6µg69%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece680g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of collagen and gelatin when simmered for stock, which supports joint, skin, and gut health.
- ✓Provides complete protein from the attached meat, containing all essential amino acids for muscle repair and immune function.
- ✓Rich in minerals like phosphorus and calcium, which are leached from the bones into broth, supporting bone density.
- ✓Creates a flavorful, low-calorie base for nutrient-dense soups and stews.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Ideal for making rich, flavorful turkey stock. Roast the backs at 400°F (200°C) until deeply browned before simmering to develop a more complex flavor.
- 2When making stock, simmer gently, never boil, for at least 4-6 hours to fully extract collagen and flavor. Skim any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer result.
- 3The small amount of meat on the back can be picked off after simmering and added back to soups or used for other dishes.
- 4Always handle raw turkey safely. Use separate cutting boards and utensils, and wash hands and surfaces thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate raw turkey backs at or below 40°F (4°C) on the bottom shelf and use within 1-2 days.
- For long-term storage, freeze at 0°F (-18°C) in an airtight freezer bag or tightly wrapped, where it will maintain quality for up to 9 months.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is turkey back healthy?
Yes, turkey back is highly nutritious, especially when used for bone broth. It is an excellent source of collagen and gelatin, which support joint, skin, and gut health, and provides essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium leached from the bones.
How much protein and fat are in turkey back?
A 100g serving of raw turkey back contains approximately 16.86g of protein and 15.41g of fat. While it is higher in fat than turkey breast, it provides a complete protein profile with all essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair.
Is turkey back keto-friendly?
Yes, turkey back is very keto-friendly because it is high in fat and contains almost zero carbohydrates (0.15g per 100g). It is an excellent ingredient for making high-fat, low-carb soups and nutrient-dense stews.
What is the best way to cook turkey back?
The most effective way to cook turkey back is by simmering it slowly in water to create stocks, gravies, or bone broths. This long cooking process extracts the maximum amount of collagen and minerals from the bones and connective tissue.
Can you eat the meat on a turkey back?
Yes, the meat attached to the turkey back is edible and very flavorful. While it is more difficult to remove than meat from a breast or thigh due to the complex bone structure, it is a high-quality source of protein.
Is turkey back gluten-free?
Raw turkey back is naturally gluten-free as it is a pure animal protein. However, if you are buying pre-packaged or seasoned turkey backs, always check the label for additives or flavorings that might contain gluten.
How long does raw turkey back last in the refrigerator?
Raw turkey back should be stored in the coldest part of your refrigerator and used within 1 to 2 days. If you do not plan to use it within that timeframe, it should be frozen to maintain freshness and safety.
Can I freeze turkey back?
Yes, turkey back freezes very well and can be stored in the freezer for 6 to 9 months. It is common practice to save turkey backs in the freezer until you have enough to make a large batch of homemade stock.
What are the health benefits of turkey back broth?
Broth made from turkey backs is rich in gelatin, which supports gut lining health and digestion. It also provides a bioavailable source of minerals like calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for maintaining strong bone density.
How do I know if a raw turkey back has spoiled?
A spoiled turkey back will typically have a strong, sour, or ammonia-like odor and a slimy or sticky texture. If the meat appears grayish or greenish rather than pinkish-white, it should be discarded immediately.
