Poultry

Turkey, Ground, raw

FDC 171505oz (113 g)

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Density 61 · -16 vs Poultry median

Raw ground turkey scores 61 of 100, a Good band ranking 48th of 60 in Poultry, below the category's median of 77. Protein is its defining strength at 39% DV, without other nutrients standing out strongly.

Ground turkey is a common substitute for ground beef in burgers, chili, and meat sauces, with a typical 4-ounce, 113-gram portion used for cooking. Being a raw blend of light and dark meat, it needs thorough cooking to a safe temperature, and shoppers seeking a higher-ranking poultry choice might compare it with guinea hen.

See how this score is calculated, build a plate around turkey, ground, or compare it with another food.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

Fig. 1 · Macronutrient composition
Protein 19.7 g · 53%Carb 0 g · 0%Fat 7.7 g · 47%

Percent of calories derived by NutriVerdict from USDA grams

Nutrition facts

NutrientAmount% DV
Calories148 kcal7%
Total fat7.7 g10%
Saturated fat2 g10%
Cholesterol69 mg23%
Sodium58 mg3%
Carbohydrate0 g0%
Dietary fiber0 g0%
Sugars0 g
Protein20 g39%
Potassium237 mg5%
Calcium19 mg1%
Iron1.1 mg6%
Magnesium23 mg5%
Vitamin C0 mg0%
Vitamin A20 µg2%
Vitamin E0.09 mg1%

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Public domain

FDC 171505

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

What it is rich in

Nutrients supplying at least 10% of the Daily Value per 100 grams. 20% or more is an excellent source.

Protein39% DV

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

Versus the poultry median

Nutrient density61 vs 77 median
Protein / 100 g20 vs 23 median
Fiber / 100 g0 vs 0 median
Sodium / 100 g58 vs 76 median

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

More nutrient-dense swaps

Foods in the same category that score higher on nutrient density.

Turkey, all classes, breast, meat and skin, rawDensity 61 vs 61Guinea hen, meat and skin, rawDensity 62 vs 61Ostrich, ground, rawDensity 62 vs 61

Original analysis by NutriVerdict

In the kitchen and how to use it

Ground turkey is a versatile stand-in for ground beef in burgers, meatballs, tacos, chili, and pasta sauces, with a milder flavor that takes on seasoning well. Because it's leaner than many beef grinds, it can dry out if overcooked, so it benefits from added moisture like broth, egg, or a simmering sauce.

Buy it well before its use-by date, keep it refrigerated, and cook within a day or two, or freeze it promptly if not using it right away. At 148 calories per 100 g raw and protein at 39% of the Daily Value, it's a lean base for weeknight dinners, browned with onions and spices for tacos or shaped into meatballs for a lighter pasta night.

Frequently asked questions about turkey, ground

How many calories are in raw ground turkey?

Raw ground turkey has 148 calories per 100 g.

Is ground turkey a good source of protein?

Yes, it provides 19.7 g of protein per 100 g, equal to 39% of the Daily Value.

What is ground turkey used for?

It's a common stand-in for ground beef in burgers, meatballs, tacos, and chili.

View the USDA source record