Turkey hearts are gaining popularity as a nutritious and surprisingly versatile food source, even as a raw food option for some diets.
This article will provide information on the nutritional benefits of heart turkey, as well as how to safely handle and prepare it.
How nutritious are turkey hearts?
Turkey hearts are surprisingly nutritious! Here’s a quick rundown of the nutrients you’ll find in them.
Macronutrients
Turkey hearts are packed with protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue. They’re also relatively lean, meaning they’re low in fat.
Micronutrients
Turkey hearts are a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals, including:
- Riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B12, pantothenic acid, thiamin, and vitamin B6
- Phosphorus, zinc, copper, iron, and selenium
Key compounds
Turkey hearts contain beneficial compounds such as:
- Taurine, which supports brain, eye, and heart health, along with immune regulation
- Threonine, which regulates protein and enzyme activity
Why eat turkey heart?
Turkey hearts are packed with vitamins and minerals that can improve anyone’s health. But they’re especially good for pets:
- Cats need taurine for healthy hearts, and turkey hearts have plenty.
- Dogs can benefit from turkey heart, especially if their diet includes a variety of protein sources.
- If you feed your pet a raw food diet, adding turkey heart to high-bone-content foods can help balance the bone ratio.
Safe Handling and Preparation
When it comes to preparing turkey hearts, safety is key. Here’s what you need to know:
Sourcing and Storage
- Look for turkey hearts that have been inspected by the USDA.
- Make sure they’ve been frozen and kept at 0° Fahrenheit or lower.
- Vacuum-sealed packaging will help keep them fresh.
Handling Precautions
Like other poultry, turkey hearts can contain Salmonella, so it’s important to follow safe handling practices to avoid cross-contamination.
Always wash your hands, utensils, and work surfaces thoroughly after handling raw turkey hearts.
Cooking Considerations
Cooking or processing reduces the amount of taurine in the hearts, so it’s a good idea to avoid overcooking them.
Adjust your cooking times to make sure the meat is cooked properly, but still retains as many nutrients as possible.
In Closing
Turkey hearts are a nutritious, versatile, and delicious addition to your diet. Don’t forget to handle them safely to avoid cross-contamination in your kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or your pets, consider giving turkey hearts a try!