Ground Turkey Nutrition: Calories, Protein & Facts

If you value eating better without giving up flavor, ground turkey nutrition deserves your attention. Many people in the USA and Canada are switching from red meat to lean poultry. Not just for weight loss, but for heart health, muscle building, and everyday energy.
Ground turkey is affordable. It is easy to cook. And it fits into almost any meal plan.
Yet, many people still feel confused about calories, protein, and fat content. Some think it is always dry. Others believe it lacks nutrients.
That is not true.
This guide explains the nutrition facts of ground turkey. It covers protein content and compares turkey breast calories. It also shows how to choose the best option for your goals. Everything is clear, honest, and based on real use not hype.
Let’s start.
Ground Turkey Nutrition Facts: A Clear Overview
Understanding ground turkey nutrition facts helps you make better food choices. Producers make ground turkey from turkey meat, which can include breast, thigh, or a mix. The nutrition changes based on the fat ratio.
100 Grams Ground Turkey Nutrition
Here is what you get from 100 grams ground turkey nutrition (raw, average blend):
- Calories: ~170 kcal
- Protein: ~19–21 grams
- Fat: ~10 grams
- Saturated fat: ~2.5 grams
- Cholesterol: ~70 mg
- Iron: ~1.3 mg
- Zinc: ~2.4 mg
- Vitamin B12: ~1.5 mcg
This balance makes ground turkey filling without being heavy.
How Much Protein in Turkey? Why It’s a Muscle-Friendly Food
One of the most common questions is: how much protein in turkey?
Turkey is a high-quality protein. It contains all essential amino acids your body needs.
Protein Benefits You Feel
- Supports muscle growth and repair
- Keeps you full longer
- Helps maintain metabolism
- Aids recovery after workouts
Protein Amounts by Type
- Ground turkey (average): 19–21 g per 100 g
- Lean ground turkey: up to 22 g per 100 g
- Turkey breast (skinless): 23–24 g per 100 g
This makes turkey an excellent choice for fitness-focused diets.
93 7 Ground Turkey Nutrition: The Lean Favorite
If you see 93/7 ground turkey nutrition, that means:
- 93% lean meat
- 7% fat
This version is extremely popular in the USA and Canada.
Why 93/7 Is a Smart Choice
- Lower fat than regular ground turkey
- Still juicy and flavorful
- High protein content
- Great for weight loss and meal prep
Calories in 93/7 Ground Turkey
Per 100 grams (raw):
- Calories: ~160
- Protein: ~21 grams
- Fat: ~8 grams
It offers the best balance for everyday healthy eating.
Turkey Breast Calories vs Ground Turkey: Which Is Better?
Many people compare turkey breast calories to ground turkey. Both are healthy, but they serve different needs.
Turkey Breast Calories (Skinless, Cooked)
- Calories: ~135 per 100 g
- Fat: ~1 g
- Protein: ~24 g
Nutrition Turkey Breast: Key Strengths
- Extremely lean
- Very high protein
- Low fat
- Ideal for cutting diets
Ground Turkey: Why It Still Wins
Ground turkey:
- Has more flavor
- Is easier to cook in many recipes
- Feels more satisfying
- Works better in family meals
If strict calorie control is your goal, turkey breast is ideal. For balance and taste, ground turkey is more practical.
Protein Content Turkey Breast vs Ground Turkey
Let’s compare protein content turkey breast with ground turkey.
| Type | Protein per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Turkey breast | 23–24 g |
| Lean ground turkey | 21–22 g |
| Regular ground turkey | 19–20 g |
The difference is small. For most people, ground turkey still delivers excellent protein.
Ground Turkey Nutrition for Weight Loss
Ground turkey fits perfectly into weight loss plans.
Why It Helps You Lose Weight
- High protein reduces hunger
- Moderate calories
- Keeps meals satisfying
- Supports lean muscle
Real-Life Example
Many meal-prep plans in North America use ground turkey bowls. Paired with vegetables and whole grains, people report fewer cravings and better energy throughout the day.
That is the power of smart protein.
Ground Turkey Nutrition for Heart Health
Replacing red meat with turkey can improve heart health.
Benefits You Should Know
- Lower saturated fat than beef
- Rich in B vitamins
- Supports healthy cholesterol levels
Health professionals often recommend turkey for people managing blood pressure or cholesterol.
Nutrition Facts Ground Turkey: Micronutrients That Matter
Beyond protein, nutrition facts ground turkey include important vitamins and minerals.
Key Nutrients
- Vitamin B6: Supports brain health
- Vitamin B12: Helps red blood cell production
- Zinc: Boosts immunity
- Iron: Supports oxygen transport
These nutrients make ground turkey more than just protein.
Ground Turkey vs Beef: A Smart Swap
Switching from beef to turkey is common in the USA and Canada.
Comparison Per 100 g
| Nutrient | Ground Beef (80/20) | Ground Turkey (93/7) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 | ~160 |
| Fat | ~20 g | ~8 g |
| Protein | ~17 g | ~21 g |
Ground turkey clearly offers a lighter option with more protein.
Is Ground Turkey Good for Kids and Families?
Yes. Ground turkey is family-friendly.
Why Parents Choose It
- Easy to digest
- Mild flavor
- Works in burgers, tacos, pasta
- High protein for growing kids
Many families replace beef with ground turkey without complaints.
How to Choose the Healthiest Ground Turkey
Not all ground turkey is the same.
Smart Buying Tips
- Choose 93/7 or leaner
- Check labels for added sodium
- Avoid heavily processed versions
- Buy fresh when possible
Simple choices make a significant impact.
Cooking Tips That Protect Ground Turkey Nutrition
Overcooking can dry turkey and reduce enjoyment.
Better Cooking Practices
- Cook with a bit of olive oil
- Add onions or broth for moisture
- Avoid high heat for long periods
- Season well to enhance taste
Healthy food should also taste good.
Ground Turkey Nutrition Facts After Cooking
Cooking changes values slightly.
Cooked Ground Turkey (93/7)
- Calories: ~170 per 100 g
- Protein: ~26 g
- Fat: ~8 g
Protein becomes more concentrated after water loss.
Is Ground Turkey Processed?
Manufacturers minimally handle fresh ground turkey. Just ground meat. Opt for unseasoned or unfrozen patties for purer nutrition.
Who Benefits Most From Ground Turkey?
Ground turkey works well for:
- Weight loss diets
- Muscle-building plans
- Heart-healthy eating
- Busy families
- Meal prep lovers
Flexible and reliable.
Ground Turkey Nutrition for Athletes
Athletes need protein and recovery nutrients.
Ground turkey provides:
- Complete protein
- B vitamins for energy
- Iron for endurance
Many athletes use it daily.
Common Myths About Ground Turkey
“It’s Always Dry”
False. Fat ratio and cooking method matter.
“It Has No Flavor”
Wrong. It absorbs spices well.
“It’s Only for Dieters”
Not true. It works for everyone.
How to Add Ground Turkey to Your Diet
Easy meal ideas:
- Turkey chili
- Turkey burgers
- Turkey lettuce wraps
- Turkey pasta sauce
- Turkey breakfast hash
Simple meals keep nutrition consistent.
Ground Turkey Nutrition in the USA and Canada
Ground turkey is widely available in both countries. It fits national dietary guidelines focused on lean protein and heart health.
Final Thoughts: Why Ground Turkey Nutrition Deserves a Spot on Your Plate
Ground turkey nutrition offers one of the best balances of protein, calories, and versatility. It supports weight loss.
It helps muscles grow, is good for family dinners, and fits healthy eating goals in the USA and Canada.
Whether you focus on ground turkey nutrition facts, compare turkey breast calories, or track how much protein in turkey, the result is the same. Ground turkey is a smart, reliable choice.
Make it part of your weekly meals. Your body will thank you.

Taylor Green
Taylor Green writes about balanced eating, meal planning, and evidence-based nutrition tips. Their goal is to make healthy eating simple and achievable for everyone.






