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Turkey ham
View on WikipediaTurkey ham is a processed meat product made from cooked or cured turkey meat, water and other ingredients such as binders. Turkey ham products contain no pork products. Several companies in the United States produce turkey ham and market it under various brand names. It was invented c. 1975 by Jennie-O, who first introduced it to consumers that year. Around January 1980, the American Meat Institute tried to ban use of the term "turkey ham" for products that are composed solely of turkey and contain no pork. Turkey ham may also be used as a substitute for bacon where religious restrictions forbid the consumption of pork.
Overview
[edit]Turkey ham is a processed meat product made primarily from cooked or cured turkey meat and water, formed into the shape of a ham and often sold pre-sliced.[1][2] It is a ready-to-eat product that can be consumed cold or heated.[3]
Production
[edit]Turkey ham is produced from turkey meat such as cured turkey thigh meat and other meat from the animals, which can be machine-deboned.[4] Contrary to the product's name, turkey ham products do not contain ham and pork products.[5] Some turkey ham products are manufactured with added water, which adds moisture and weight, and some include binders, which serves to bind the moisture and fat in the meat to improve texture.[6][7] Turkey ham is sometimes flavored to resemble the flavor of ham.[5] Turkey ham typically has a 5 percent fat content, and some turkey hams are produced as fat-free.[3][8] Turkey hams are typically produced in two sizes, whole and half-sized.[3]
Some U.S. producers and brands of turkey ham include Butterball, Cargill, Jennie-O, Louis Rich, Norbest and Oscar Mayer.[9][10][11][12]
History
[edit]
Turkey ham was developed by Jennie-O and was first introduced to American consumers by the company in 1975.[a] Turkey ham was a successful venture for Jennie-O, as the processed meat brought in revenues that were ten times higher compared to those the company realized from unprocessed turkey thighs.[13]
Labeling
[edit]Around January 1980, the American Meat Institute (AMI) attempted to ban the use of the term "turkey ham" for products that contain no ham and are entirely composed of turkey, which the AMI described as "flagrant consumer deception".[5] Use of the term "turkey ham" for such products was also opposed by some ham producers in the United States.[5] Circa this time, the U.S. government began requiring turkey ham producers to include the words "cured turkey thigh meat" on turkey ham packaging.[5] In 2010, it was written in the Handbook of Poultry Science and Technology, Secondary Processing that the term "cured turkey thigh meat" always followed the words "turkey ham" on American turkey ham packaging.[3]
Nutrition and Health
[edit]Turkey ham is generally considered a lean processed meat, with a typical serving (100 grams) containing approximately 118 kilocalories, 16 grams of protein, 4 grams of fat (including 1.2 grams of saturated fat), 3.1 grams of carbohydrates, 909 milligrams of sodium, and 64 milligrams of cholesterol.[14] It supplies moderate amounts of iron, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin B12.
Compared to traditional pork ham, turkey ham is typically lower in calories, total fat, and cholesterol, making it a popular choice for those seeking lower-fat or pork-free alternatives.[15] Sodium content is often high, sometimes delivering over 40% of the recommended daily intake per 100 gram serving.[14]
As a processed meat, turkey ham may contain preservatives such as nitrites or nitrates. Health authorities recommend moderation in consumption of processed meats, as excessive intake is associated with increased risks for certain chronic diseases.[16]
Nutritional values and ingredients may vary by brand or preparation. Some options are marketed as “extra lean” or “low sodium” to meet specific dietary preferences.[17]
See also
[edit]
The dictionary definition of turkey ham at Wiktionary
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ Sun, D.W. (2016). Computer Vision Technology for Food Quality Evaluation. Elsevier Science. p. 129. ISBN 978-0-12-802599-4. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Acton, Q.A. (2012). Issues in General Food Research: 2011 Edition. ScholarlyEditions. p. pt1093. ISBN 978-1-4649-6412-1. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ a b c d Handbook of Poultry Science and Technology, Secondary Processing. Wiley. 2010. p. 236. ISBN 978-0-470-50446-8. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Pearson, A.M.; Gillett, T.A. (2012). Processed Meats. Springer US. p. 173. ISBN 978-1-4615-7685-3. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ a b c d e Kiplinger's Personal Finance. Kiplinger Washington Editors, Inc. January 1980. p. 4. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Hui, Y.H. (2006). Handbook of Food Science, Technology, and Engineering. CRCNET books. Taylor & Francis. p. 72-92. ISBN 978-0-8493-9848-3. Retrieved May 28, 2017.
- ^ "Non-meat Ingredients". Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Retrieved May 28, 2017.
- ^ Natow, A.B.; Heslin, J.A. (2008). The Fat Counter: 7th Edition. Pocket Books. p. 548. ISBN 978-1-4165-0986-8. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Allen, G.J.; Albala, K. (2007). The Business of Food: Encyclopedia of the Food and Drink Industries. Greenwood Press. p. 307. ISBN 978-0-313-33725-3. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Apps, J. (2015). Wisconsin Agriculture: A History (in Spanish). Wisconsin Historical Society Press. p. 340. ISBN 978-0-87020-725-9. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ DeBakey, M.E. (1992). The Living Heart Brand Name Shopper's Guide. MasterMedia Limited. p. 296. ISBN 978-0-942361-43-8. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ Farmer cooperatives. The Service. 1977. p. 10. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ a b Drache, H.M. (2001). Creating Abundance: Visionary Entrepreneurs of Agriculture. Interstate Publishers. pp. 323–324. ISBN 978-0-8134-3208-3. Retrieved May 29, 2017.
- ^ a b "Turkey ham nutrition". FoodStruct. 31 October 2024. Retrieved 20 October 2025.
- ^ "Ham vs. Turkey Ham: What's the Healthier Choice?". YummyYumFood. 13 July 2025. Retrieved 20 October 2025.
- ^ "Are Cold Cuts Healthy? Here's What a Dietitian Has to Say". EatingWell. 7 February 2019. Retrieved 20 October 2025.
- ^ "Turkey Ham". Butterball. 26 August 2025. Retrieved 20 October 2025.
Turkey ham
View on GrokipediaOverview
Definition
Turkey ham is a processed poultry product fabricated exclusively from turkey meat, primarily the boneless thigh portion, which is cured, smoked, or cooked to replicate the flavor, texture, and appearance of traditional pork ham. Unlike pork ham, it contains no pork products whatsoever, positioning it as a viable alternative for individuals adhering to dietary restrictions, religious prohibitions on pork such as those in Islam or Judaism, or health-focused preferences for leaner poultry options.[1][6][7] Under United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regulations, turkey ham must be made from turkey thigh meat with the skin and surface fat removed, ensuring it qualifies as a ready-to-eat item. The product typically incorporates water along with binders and other approved additives to achieve its characteristic form and consistency, while the cooked weight cannot exceed that of the original raw turkey thigh meat to maintain quality standards. This composition emphasizes the turkey as the core ingredient, distinguishing it from other processed meats that may blend multiple proteins.[8][3] The nomenclature "turkey ham" derives from the ham's historical association with the hind leg or thigh of an animal, combined with the curing and shaping techniques that mimic pork processing, rather than denoting the species of origin. This terminology highlights the product's intent to evoke the familiar qualities of ham while clarifying its poultry base through mandatory labeling, such as "cured turkey thigh meat."[1][6]Characteristics
Turkey ham features a savory and smoky flavor profile, often with subtle notes of sweetness from the curing process, while being notably leaner and less fatty than pork ham due to the use of turkey thigh meat.[9] Its texture is firm yet moist and sliceable, achieved through forming the cured turkey into cohesive logs or nuggets that ensure uniformity without a spongy or porous feel.[10] The appearance of turkey ham is characterized by a pinkish-red to mahogany hue, resulting from curing agents that mimic the color of traditional smoked hams, with no excessive voids, fat pockets, or signs of deterioration for optimal visual appeal.[10][11] Common variations include boneless whole nuggets, pre-sliced deli-style portions, and larger formed logs, all typically 4 to 5 inches in diameter for consistent shaping and ease of use.[10] For storage, turkey ham requires refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) and, once opened, lasts 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator, while vacuum-sealed unopened packages can endure up to 2 weeks; freezing extends usability to 1 to 2 months, with thawed product lasting 3 to 5 days under refrigeration.[2][12] Vacuum-sealing helps preserve freshness by preventing exposure to air and bacteria.[13]Production
Ingredients
Turkey ham is primarily composed of turkey thigh meat, including up to 15% ground thigh trimmings, with no skin, surface fat, or mechanically separated turkey allowed, which provide the essential protein base and must form the majority of the product, with the cooked weight not exceeding that of the fresh uncured thigh meat per USDA standards.[8] Up to 15% ground thigh trimmings may be included without separate declaration to enhance yield while maintaining the thigh meat character.[14] Binders and stabilizers such as modified food starch, isolated soy protein, sodium phosphates, and potassium lactate are added to retain moisture, improve binding, and ensure structural integrity during processing.[15] Flavor enhancers including dextrose, salt, raw sugar, honey, and spices are incorporated to replicate the savory, slightly sweet profile of traditional ham. Curing agents like synthetic sodium nitrite or natural sources such as celery powder are used for preservation, color fixation, and flavor development, with approved levels ensuring safety and compliance.[8][16] Water is added during formulation, often up to 20% in products labeled as "water added," to increase tenderness and yield while adhering to regulatory minimums for meat content.[15][8]Processing Methods
The production of turkey ham begins with the initial preparation of raw turkey thighs, which are deboned, skinned, and trimmed to remove excess fat and connective tissue. The thigh meat is then ground or flaked using industrial equipment with plate openings typically ranging from 0.5 to 1 inch for larger pieces and finer screens (0.125 inch or less) for trimmings, which are limited to no more than 15% of the total meat block to maintain product quality. This size-reduced meat is mixed with water (up to 20% of the formulation), salts, phosphates, and binders such as soy or milk proteins to extract myofibrillar proteins and form a stable emulsion that binds the mixture together, ensuring a uniform texture in the restructured product.[17] Following preparation, the emulsified mixture is formed into shapes resembling traditional ham logs or molds, often through stuffing into fibrous casings or extrusion into forms with diameters of 4 to 5 inches. To enhance moisture retention and flavor penetration, the formed product is frequently injected with a brine solution containing salts and curing agents like sodium nitrite, achieving an uptake of 10-20% by weight, before being massaged or tumbled to distribute the brine evenly and promote protein binding. This step occurs within 48 hours of size reduction, with the product held at temperatures between 26°F and 40°F to initiate curing without bacterial growth.[17][18] Curing follows forming, typically via wet methods using the injected brine for 24-48 hours under controlled refrigeration to allow salt diffusion and nitrite reaction for preservation and color development, though dry curing with salt rubs is less common for restructured turkey ham. Subsequently, the cured product undergoes smoking at low temperatures of 140-160°F for several hours to impart flavor and a mahogany exterior color, using either traditional wood smoke, liquid smoke, or smoke-impregnated casings, as specified on the label. This step enhances aroma compounds while avoiding excessive drying.[19] Cooking completes the thermal processing, where the smoked logs are baked or steamed in ovens or cookers to reach a minimum internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring pathogen destruction such as Salmonella, with the process monitored to prevent overcooking and maintain juiciness. After cooking, the product is rapidly chilled to 40°F or below within hours, often using blast chillers, to halt bacterial proliferation and set the gel structure formed by the emulsion.[17][18] Finally, the chilled turkey ham is sliced to uniform thickness (typically 1-2 mm for deli use) using high-speed slicers under sanitary conditions to minimize contamination, or left whole for retail packaging. Sliced portions are vacuum-sealed or placed in modified atmosphere packaging to extend shelf life, while whole logs are wrapped and frozen to 0°F within 72 hours if not sold fresh, with metal detection and weight verification ensuring compliance before distribution.[17][18]History
Origins
Prior to the 1970s, the turkey industry faced challenges with underutilized dark meat, as consumer preferences strongly favored the milder white breast meat, leaving thighs and legs as surplus byproducts that sold at significantly lower prices—often one-fifth to one-third the value of white meat.[20] This imbalance stemmed from the post-World War II expansion of turkey farming, which boomed to meet holiday demand for whole birds, resulting in abundant, cheaper dark meat portions that processors sought to repurpose for economic viability. The motivation to invent turkey ham arose from the need to transform these underused turkey thighs into a value-added product mimicking the popular pork ham, thereby expanding market appeal and reducing waste in the poultry sector. Early experimentation began in academic and industry settings, where researchers explored curing and smoking techniques on turkey dark meat to replicate the texture and flavor of traditional hams.[21] Pioneering work by Cornell University professor Robert C. Baker in the mid-20th century laid the groundwork, developing prototypes through informal trials that integrated poultry processing innovations to broaden consumer acceptance of dark meat products.[22] These efforts by poultry scientists and Midwest processors in the early 1970s focused on ham-like curing methods to leverage the abundant supply, culminating in the product's commercial introduction around 1975.[20]Commercial Development
Turkey ham was first commercialized in the United States in 1975 by Jennie-O Turkey Store, which developed the product using turkey thigh meat—a less desirable cut at the time—to create a higher-value deli item and increase revenue streams for the turkey industry.[4] The product's launch sparked controversy, with pork producers challenging the 'ham' labeling in 1976, leading to USDA regulations requiring qualifiers like 'cured turkey thigh meat' to prevent consumer confusion.[4][23] During the 1980s, the product gained broader adoption as other major producers entered the market, including Butterball, which launched its first branded deli meats in 1981 and introduced pre-packaged turkey lunchmeats by 1986.[24] Hormel Foods further expanded availability after acquiring Jennie-O in 1986, aligning with emerging health trends that promoted leaner poultry alternatives to traditional pork products amid growing consumer concerns over fat and cholesterol in the late 1980s.[25] The 1990s and 2000s saw significant growth in turkey ham demand, driven by the popularity of low-fat processed meats as part of broader dietary shifts toward healthier options.[26] By 2025, while Jennie-O discontinued its turkey ham line in late 2022 amid shifting preferences toward fresher or plant-based alternatives, with further supply chain adjustments such as the 2024 closure of a Jennie-O harvesting facility, the product remains available through specialty brands such as Butterball and select Hormel offerings.[27][28][29] Turkey ham has since become a staple in U.S. deli sections, contributing to the turkey industry's diversification and helping the deli turkey subcategory reach approximately $1.7 billion in sales by the early 2020s.[30]Culinary Uses
Preparation
Turkey ham, being a ready-to-eat cured product made from turkey thigh meat, requires careful handling to ensure food safety and optimal texture. If purchased frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator using the safest method, allowing 24 to 48 hours for whole pieces depending on size (approximately 24 hours per 4 to 5 pounds) to prevent bacterial growth while preserving moisture and firmness.[2][31] Once thawed or if bought fresh, store turkey ham in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below immediately after purchase. Unopened vacuum-sealed packages can last up to 2 weeks or the "use by" date, while opened or store-wrapped turkey ham should be consumed within 3 to 5 days to minimize spoilage risks.[2][12] Always keep it tightly wrapped or in its original packaging to avoid cross-contamination with other foods. For serving, turkey ham's versatility allows it to be enjoyed cold, such as thinly sliced for sandwiches, without further cooking, distinguishing it from fresh turkey cuts that require full preparation. When heating is desired—whether whole or in portions—bake it uncovered in a shallow pan at 325°F (163°C) for 15 to 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to eliminate potential pathogens like Listeria monocytogenes, which can survive in ready-to-eat meats.[2][32][33] Use a food thermometer inserted into the thickest part to verify doneness, and avoid overcooking to retain juiciness. Enhance flavor during baking by applying a simple glaze, such as a mixture of honey and mustard, brushed on in the last 15 to 20 minutes of heating; this caramelizes the surface without compromising safety.[34] After preparation, any leftovers should be cooled quickly and refrigerated within 2 hours, reheated only once to the same 165°F internal temperature if served again.[35]Common Dishes
Turkey ham is a versatile ingredient commonly featured in sandwiches and wraps, where its mild, smoky flavor complements layered preparations. It can be used in club sandwiches stacked with bacon, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and mayonnaise between toasted bread slices, often secured with toothpicks for easy handling.[36] Similarly, turkey ham can be incorporated into Monte Cristo sandwiches alongside turkey or cheese, dipped in an egg batter, fried until golden, and dusted with powdered sugar, providing a sweet-savory contrast popular for brunch or lunch.[37] In breakfast dishes, turkey ham serves as a lean substitute for traditional ham, diced and folded into omelets with eggs, cheese, and vegetables for a protein-rich start to the day. It also appears in quiches, where small cubes are mixed into the egg custard and baked in a pastry crust, enhancing flavor without overpowering the dish. As an alternative in eggs Benedict, turkey ham tops poached eggs and English muffins, drizzled with hollandaise sauce for a lighter variation of the classic.[38] For holiday meals, turkey ham is frequently sliced thin and arranged on platters for Easter or Christmas gatherings, often glazed with honey or mustard to mimic pork ham's appeal while accommodating dietary preferences. It pairs well with traditional sides such as scalloped potatoes, green beans, or dinner rolls, contributing to festive spreads that serve multiple guests.[39] Turkey ham enhances salads and appetizers through cubing or slicing, adding a savory element to chef salads that include mixed greens, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed simply with vinaigrette.[40] For charcuterie boards, it is skewered with fruits, cheeses, and crackers, offering a non-pork option that maintains the board's variety and visual appeal. Internationally, turkey ham adapts to halal versions of Western dishes, such as the croque-monsieur, where it can replace pork ham between bread slices with béchamel sauce and Gruyère cheese, grilled until bubbly and served in Muslim communities seeking familiar comfort foods.[41]Nutrition and Health
Nutritional Profile
Turkey ham provides a nutrient-dense profile typical of cured poultry products, with nutritional values varying slightly based on formulation and processing. A standard serving size of 2 ounces (56 grams), equivalent to one or two slices, typically contains 60-80 calories, 9-10 grams of protein, and 1-3 grams of fat, the majority of which derives from the dark meat of turkey thighs used in production. This fat content is predominantly unsaturated, contributing to its lower overall lipid profile compared to red meat alternatives.[42] In terms of macronutrients, turkey ham is a good source of protein, comprising approximately 16-18% of its weight, which supports muscle maintenance and satiety. It contains 1-2 grams of carbohydrates per serving and features moderate sodium levels of 500-700 milligrams due to the curing process. These attributes make it a suitable option for low-carb dietary patterns, though portion control is advisable given the sodium concentration.[42] Key micronutrients in turkey ham include B vitamins such as niacin (about 2.3 milligrams per serving, or 14% of the daily value) and vitamin B6 (around 0.04 milligrams, or 2% DV), along with selenium (21 micrograms, or 38% DV) and zinc (1.2 milligrams, or 11% DV). Iron content is relatively low at 0.6 milligrams per serving (3% DV), notably less than in red meats like pork.[43] Brand variations influence the profile; uncured versions, which avoid synthetic nitrates and use natural alternatives like celery powder, maintain similar macronutrients but may have marginally lower sodium or additive levels. Leaner cuts, often labeled as 97% fat-free, can reduce fat to under 2 grams per serving while preserving protein content.[16] Compared to traditional pork ham, turkey ham is leaner, offering about 50% less fat (e.g., 1-3 grams versus 4-6 grams per 56-gram serving), though sodium levels remain comparable at around 600-800 milligrams. This positions turkey ham as a lower-calorie alternative with 60-80 calories per serving versus 80-100 for pork equivalents.| Nutrient | Amount per 2 oz (56 g) Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 60-80 | 3-4% |
| Protein | 9-10 g | 18-20% |
| Total Fat | 1-3 g | 1-4% |
| Carbohydrates | 1-2 g | 1% |
| Sodium | 500-700 mg | 22-30% |
| Niacin (B3) | 2.3 mg | 14% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.04 mg | 2% |
| Selenium | 21 mcg | 38% |
| Zinc | 1.2 mg | 11% |
| Iron | 0.6 mg | 3% |