Turkey bacon has replaced the classic bacon in many recipes and sandwiches due to its leaner meat content, but how many calories does it actually have and how does it compare to regular bacon?
Knowing what you eat and how many calories you consume is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy diet and weight, so, in this article, we will continue to explore the calories found in different foods, with our focus being turkey bacon!
What Is Turkey Bacon?
In case you don’t already know what turkey bacon is, we’re talking about a type of bacon that is made from turkey meat instead of the traditional pork.
It is made by using ground turkey meat, which is then seasoned and formed into strips that look like traditional bacon.
How Does Turkey Bacon Compare To Regular Bacon?
One of the great things about turkey bacon is that it contains less fat than regular bacon.
In fact, turkey bacon typically has around 25% less fat than pork bacon, which means that it can be a healthier option for those who are watching their fat and calorie intake.
That reason is more than enough to make it a popular alternative for people who want to cut down on their fat and calorie intake without sacrificing the delicious taste of bacon!
What Is The Calorie Content Of Turkey Bacon?
So, when it comes to calorie content, turkey bacon is definitely a healthier option than traditional pork bacon. In fact, turkey bacon typically contains fewer calories than pork bacon.
The exact number of calories in turkey bacon can vary depending on the brand and the serving size, but on average, a slice of turkey bacon contains around 30-40 calories.
This is compared to pork bacon, which can contain anywhere from 40-100 calories per slice depending on the brand and serving size.
The Macronutrients Of Turkey Bacon: A Closer Look
As with all foods, knowing the macronutrient content of your food can help you make informed decisions about your diet and ensure that you’re getting the nutrients your body needs.
So, let’s see how turkey bacon performs:
Protein Content
When it comes to protein, turkey bacon is a pretty good source as a single slice of turkey bacon contains around 3 grams of protein!
While this may not seem like a lot, it can add up if you’re eating several slices, not to mention that it’s a great amount of protein for the low amount of calories you get with each slice!
Carbohydrate Content
Carbohydrates are not a significant macronutrient in turkey bacon, as it typically contains less than 1 gram of carbs per slice.
This makes it a great option for those who are following a low-carb diet, but it is similar to that of other types of bacon too.
Fat Content
As we mentioned earlier, turkey bacon is generally lower in fat compared to traditional pork bacon. However, it still contains some fat.
One slice of turkey bacon can contain around 2-3 grams of fat, depending on the brand and how it’s cooked.
As you can see, while turkey bacon may not be the most significant source of macronutrients, it can still be a part of a healthy and balanced diet.
It can provide a decent amount of protein while being lower in fat and carbohydrates compared to traditional pork bacon.
However, it’s important to keep portion sizes in mind and pay attention to how it’s cooked to avoid adding unnecessary calories and fat.
How To Cook Turkey Bacon To Keep The Calories On The Low Side
Cooking turkey bacon can be a great way to enjoy the delicious taste of bacon while keeping your calorie intake in check.
Here are some tips on how to cook turkey bacon to keep the calories on the low side:
Bake It
Baking turkey bacon in the oven is a great way to cook it without adding any extra oil or fat.
Simply preheat your oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and lay your turkey bacon on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired crispiness.
Try The Microwave
If you’re short on time, cooking turkey bacon in the microwave can be a quick and easy option as you simply need to place a few slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel before cooking on high for 1-2 minutes, or until it’s crispy.
Griddle It
Cooking turkey bacon on a griddle can be a great way to get that crispy texture without adding extra oil, so if you go for that, just preheat your griddle over medium heat, lay your turkey bacon on top, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Use A Non-Stick Pan
If you’re cooking turkey bacon on the stovetop, using a non-stick pan can help you avoid adding extra oil or butter. Simply lay your turkey bacon in the pan and cook over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Blot The Grease
No matter how you choose to cook your turkey bacon, it’s important to blot off any excess grease by laying your cooked turkey bacon on a paper towel and gently patting it dry to remove any excess oil.
The Bottom Line
Summing things up, turkey bacon can be a great alternative for those who want to enjoy the delicious taste of bacon without consuming too many calories and fat.
This type of bacon contains less fat and fewer calories than traditional pork bacon and provides a decent amount of protein to keep you full for longer.
However, it’s important to keep portion sizes in mind and pay attention to how it’s cooked to avoid adding unnecessary calories and fat.
So, make sure you cook and eat turkey bacon the right way and in moderation, and you could enjoy it on a daily basis if you want too!
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