Through autumn and the beginning of winter, more and more people start to think about Christmas. Where are we eating? Who are we eating with? And most importantly, what christmas turkey are we eating? Many aren’t aware that there are two main types of turkey: bronze and white. But what is the difference? Here, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the difference in turkeys and which you should buy for your festive celebrations.
For many, the plump white turkey is a quintessential centerpiece of celebratory meals and family gatherings. Yet behind this delicious bird lies a fascinating history that has shaped agricultural practices for decades.
Let’s explore the origins, traits and production of the iconic white turkey to gain a deeper appreciation of this culinary staple.
A Brief History of White Turkeys
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White feathered turkeys first emerged as natural color mutations of wild ancestors domesticated by ancient Indigenous cultures in Central America.
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Farmers soon realized the white pinfeathers were less visible during processing giving white varieties an advantage in commercial production.
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Selective breeding led to the emergence of early white turkey breeds like the White Holland in the 1800s, solidifying their place in agriculture.
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The famous Broad Breasted White turkey was developed in the 1920s and rapidly dominated the turkey industry due to its combination of meat yield, growth rate, and white plumage.
Defining Traits of the Broad Breasted White
The Broad Breasted White exhibits several key features that make it the premier commercial turkey breed:
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Large Size – Toms can reach over 40 lbs, hens 25-30 lbs, providing substantial meat.
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Rapid Growth – Reach target weight at 18-24 weeks, allowing efficient turnover.
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Abundant White Breast Meat – Broad, well-muscled breast supplies the prized cut consumers covet.
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Feed Efficiency – Efficiently convert feed into muscle, maximizing profits.
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Calm Temperament – Docile nature facilitates raising in large barns.
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High Fertility Rates – Excellent egg production ensures abundant poult supplies.
Controversies and Considerations in White Turkey Production
However, intensive production of the Broad Breasted White also raises some concerns:
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Welfare Issues – Crowded confinement barns restrict natural behaviors.
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Health Problems – Rapid growth causes obesity, joint, and heart issues.
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Reproduction Difficulties – Massive size makes natural breeding challenging.
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Lack of Genetic Diversity – Heavy inbreeding narrows gene pool.
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Antibiotic Overuse – Non-therapeutic use worries consumers.
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Unsustainability – Monoculture production depends on fossil fuel inputs.
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Culinary Impact – Criticized as inferior in flavor compared to heritage breeds.
Alternatives to Commercially Farmed White Turkeys
For consumers wanting more sustainable options, several alternatives exist:
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Heritage Breeds – Slow-growing, traditional breeds prized for richness like Bourbon Red.
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Free-Range – Allowing natural behaviors outdoors on pasture.
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Organic – Avoiding antibiotics and artificial growth stimulants.
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Small Farms – Supporting local agriculture and humane practices.
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Holistic Management – Prioritizing bird health and welfare over productivity.
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Regenerative Agriculture – Enhancing biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience.
While the iconic supermarket white turkey dominates our plates, increased awareness of ethical and environmental issues invites us to consider more thoughtful approaches to poultry production as conscientious consumers.
What is the difference between Bronze Turkeys and White Turkeys?
Bronze turkeys are more closely related to the wild turkeys found in native America in both appearance and taste, and we match their native growing environment as closely as possible so that they grow perfectly. They have an unusual colour which is often black and metallic in the sunlight giving them a bronze tone.
White turkeys have wider breasts and have only white feathers. They are typically reared in a barn, however, we raise all our turkeys’ completely free range.
Choosing Bronze or White Turkey for Christmas
The breed of turkey you choose for Christmas or thanksgiving is completely dependent on your preference. White turkeys are great for catering to white and dark meat lovers as they are slightly more cost-effective. If the richer taste of the bronze turkey is calling your name, then you won’t be disappointed in the beautiful taste and texture. However, the difference in taste is more pronounced in brown meat, so if you’re only going to eat white meat, white turkey may be your best option.
We have a range of turkey that is sure to make you and your guests happy this festive period. From turkey crowns to full turkeys, we’ve got you covered!
HFG Farm Animal Spotlight: Broad Breasted White Turkey *TURKEY WEEK*
FAQ
What kind of turkey is a White Turkey?
The White Holland turkey is showy in appearance, with snow-white feathers and a red to bluish head. The beard is black, the beak is pink to horn colored and the throat and wattles are pinkish-white.
Are white turkeys good to eat?
White turkeys are succulent with a more subtle taste and are the go-to turkey for most. They’re also great for those who enjoy a healthy piece of breast meat whilst also providing generous thighs and wings to cater for those who prefer dark meat.
What is the difference between a White Turkey and a brown turkey?
Although domestic turkeys can be bred to closely resemble wild turkeys, domestics normally are bred white to avoid darker skin coloration associated with non-white feathers. Wild turkeys rely on their dark brown and black plumage as camouflage.
How rare is it to see a White Turkey?
Albino wild turkeys are extremely rare, and leucistic wild turkeys are nearly as rare – only a handful are harvested each year out of nearly 750,000 nationwide.
What is a small white turkey?
Beltsville Small White – Smaller white turkey better suited to small farm use. Midget White – Miniaturized version of Broad Breasted White with better health. The Broad Breasted White turkey has clearly demonstrated itself as the perfect breed for intensive commercial meat production.
Are Broad Breasted White turkeys good for meat production?
Today these birds are highly popular throughout the world and they are excellent for meat production. Broad Breasted White turkey is the breed raised by the commercial turkey farmers in the United States. The breed is very good for producing breast meat.
What is the difference between white Turkey and white turkey?
Their meat is slightly tougher than white turkey but retains more moisture, making it ideal for slow roasting. White turkeys: Known for their succulent and subtly sweet flavor, white turkeys are the go-to choice for those who prefer a milder taste. Their meat is tender and juicy, with generous portions of both white and dark meat.
How much does a Broad Breasted White turkey weigh?
The Broad Breasted White turkeys are a very popular breed of turkey in commercial farming. They have a high feed to meat conversion ratio reaching maturity quickly than other common breeds. These birds are ready for market after a period of 16 weeks. At this time these birds can weigh 13kgs. Are Broad Breasted White turkeys overweight?
What color is a white turkey?
Wild Turkeys have the deep, rich brown and black feathers that most people associate with turkeys. In completely opposite fashion, domestic turkeys are normally white in color, an intentional product of domestication because white pin feathers are less noticeable on the carcass. Are white turkeys good to eat?
Are Broad Breasted White turkeys a good breed?
Due to their rapid growth and large processing weight, this is an ideal breed for today’s meat industry. A survey in 2012 showed that 87 million turkeys were consumed in America alone over the course of the year. You can bet the majority of those were Broad Breasted White Turkeys.