Turkey, all classes
Category: Poultry Products Parts: Wing, Meat And Skin Method: Raw
Nutrition Highlights
Serving Size
Calories
65
Nutrient
% Daily Value*
*Daily Values are based on the reference caloric intake of 2,000 calories for adults and children aged 4+ years. Source: Food & Drug Administration
Calorie Sources
| Nutrient | Calories kcal (%) |
|---|---|
| Fat | 37 (56.2%) |
| Protein | 27 (41.0%) |
| Total | 65 (100%) |
Serving: 1 unit (yield from 1 lb ready-to-cook turkey) [33g]
Composition
| Nutrient | Weight g (%) |
|---|---|
| Water | 22 (66.5%) |
| Protein | 6.7 (20.2%) |
| Fat | 4.1 (12.3%) |
| Ash | 0.3 (0.8%) |
| Total | 33 (100%) |
Serving: 1 unit (yield from 1 lb ready-to-cook turkey) [33g]
Benefits
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High in protein, with 3 ounces providing around 26 grams of protein to support muscle growth and maintenance
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A good source of B vitamins like niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and vitamin B6 which support energy production and red blood cell formation
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Contains selenium which is an antioxidant that may help protect cells from damage. Just 3 ounces of turkey provides around 20% of the RDI for selenium
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Low in fat and calories compared to other meats. 3 ounces of turkey wing meat and skin has around 115 calories and 4 grams of fat
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Contains tryptophan which is an amino acid precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and sleep. Tryptophan from turkey may help promote relaxation and sleep
Risks
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High in fat and calories. Turkey wings contain fat under the skin which increases the fat and calorie content per serving
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May contain bacteria. Raw turkey can contain bacteria like salmonella which may cause foodborne illness if the turkey is undercooked or improperly handled
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High in sodium. Turkey wings may be high in sodium content depending on preparation and seasoning methods used
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May lack nutrients. Turkey wings are lean meat but lack nutrients found in other parts like breast meat
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Portion size matters. While turkey is a good source of protein, eating too large portions of wings can negate the health benefits due to high fat and calorie content
Additional Information
Turkey, all classes, wing, meat and skin, raw, is a versatile and popular food product that offers several nutritional benefits. However, it is important to consider the risks associated with consuming the meat and skin. Let's explore the nutritional profile of this item.
Starting with the primary attribute, turkey meat is an excellent source of lean protein. It contains all the essential amino acids required for growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles, supporting immune function, and maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. The wing meat of turkey is particularly rich in protein, making it a great choice for individuals looking to meet their protein needs.
Additionally, turkey meat is relatively low in fat, especially when compared to other meats like beef or pork. The skin, however, contains a higher amount of fat. While some fat is necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and providing energy, excessive fat intake can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of certain health conditions. Therefore, it is advisable to consume turkey meat without the skin or opt for skinless cuts to minimize fat intake.
Turkey meat is also a good source of several essential vitamins and minerals. It is particularly rich in B vitamins such as niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. These vitamins play a crucial role in energy production, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells. Additionally, turkey meat contains minerals like selenium, zinc, and phosphorus, which are important for immune function, cell growth, and bone health.
On the other hand, the skin of turkey, while flavorful, poses some risks. The skin is high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess. It is also a significant source of calories, so individuals watching their calorie intake should be mindful of consuming turkey with the skin.
To make the most of the nutritional benefits of turkey while minimizing risks, it is recommended to choose skinless cuts of turkey meat. This way, you can still enjoy the lean protein, vitamins, and minerals without the added saturated fat and excess calories from the skin. Grilling, baking, or roasting turkey without the skin can be a healthier cooking method compared to frying, as it reduces the overall fat content.
In conclusion, turkey meat, specifically the wing meat, is a nutritious food product that offers lean protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. However, the skin of the turkey contains higher amounts of fat and calories, which can pose health risks if consumed in excess. Opting for skinless cuts and choosing healthier cooking methods can help maximize the nutritional benefits while minimizing the risks associated with turkey consumption.