Are Bubba Turkey Burgers Actually Healthy?

Bubba turkey burgers have become a popular alternative to traditional beef burgers. With “healthy” and “all-natural” marketed right on the package, Bubba turkey burgers seem like a nutritious choice. But are these turkey burgers truly as healthy as they claim to be? Let’s take a closer look at what’s really in a Bubba turkey burger.

Why Choose Turkey Over Beef for Burgers?

There are some clear nutritional advantages to opting for ground turkey instead of ground beef for your burgers

• Turkey is much lower in saturated fat and calories compared to beef A turkey burger contains around 190 calories and 11g fat, versus 270 calories and 18g fat in a beef burger

• Turkey burgers are cholesterol-free since they contain zero red meat. Red meats are the primary dietary source of cholesterol.

• Turkey provides more protein ounce for ounce than beef. A 4oz turkey burger patty has 22g protein, similar to beef.

• Ground turkey is a leaner choice fitting for weight loss, heart health, or low-fat diets.

So nutritionally speaking, turkey burgers win over beef in terms of being lower in calories, fat, and cholesterol.

Are Bubba Turkey Burgers 100% All-Natural Turkey?

This is where things get a little murky. While Bubba turkey burgers do use real lean ground turkey as the first ingredient, they also contain added flavorings.

Bubba turkey burgers are not 100% pure turkey meat. The ingredient list includes rosemary extract and “natural flavors” which are not further defined.

While real turkey is still the main component, the seasoning and flavoring ingredients make it difficult to know exactly what you’re getting nutritionally. The added flavorings bump up the sodium content as well.

Tips for Choosing Healthy Turkey Burgers

When shopping for turkey burgers, keep these tips in mind:

• Seek out brands made with 100% ground turkey breast meat for maximum leanness.

• Avoid turkey burgers with a long list of flavorings, spices, additives. Simple is best.

• Look for “no antibiotics added” on the label for a more natural choice.

• Seek burgers without added salt or sodium. Sodium content over 300mg per burger is high.

• Opt for brands with 10g of fat or less per serving.

• Check the calories per burger – under 200 calories is ideal.

• Prioritize turkey burgers made only from ground turkey and minimal other ingredients.

Healthy Ways to Cook and Customize Turkey Burgers

The way you prepare and top your turkey burgers also impacts their nutrition:

• Grill or broil burgers instead of frying to reduce fat and calories.

• Skip the fatty cheeses or sugary condiments and opt for veggie toppings instead.

• Choose whole grain buns over white buns for added fiber.

• Wrap in lettuce leaves instead of a bun to slash carbs.

• Make your own seasoning blend with herbs, spices, garlic and onion powder to avoid added sodium from store-bought blends.

• Mix in finely chopped veggies like mushrooms, onions, or spinach for extra nutrients.

The Verdict on Bubba Turkey Burgers

While Bubba turkey burgers do contain lean turkey meat, the addition of flavorings and sodium prevent them from being considered a completely natural, unprocessed choice. Those looking for basic turkey burger nutrition without the additives may want to check labels and compare brands to find better options.

But flavored turkey burgers like Bubba can still be an occasional healthier switch from beef, as long as you watch portions and accompaniments. Going for turkey over beef provides a good nutritional boost on its own. Just don’t assume all turkey burgers are created equal!