The Legal Standard: No Added Hormones or Steroids
For decades, US federal law has strictly prohibited the use of added hormones and steroids in the production of all poultry, including turkeys. This regulation is overseen by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and has been in place since the 1950s. The law applies to both chickens and turkeys, so when you see a turkey labeled with phrases like “No added hormones or steroids,” it's important to understand that this is not a unique selling point but a legal requirement for all brands. For a brand to make this claim, it must be accompanied by a statement like, “Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones”.
Why Do Companies Still Advertise 'No Added Hormones'?
Many consumers remain unaware of the long-standing federal regulation. As a result, food companies often use the “no added hormones” label as a marketing tool to imply a superior, healthier product. This practice can be misleading, making shoppers believe that other brands might be using these substances. This is a crucial distinction to understand when navigating the meat aisle. The real differences between brands lie in other production methods, such as diet, antibiotic use, and animal welfare practices.
Understanding Turkey Labels Beyond Hormones
When you’re looking for a turkey that meets your standards, focus on labels that indicate practices beyond the federal minimum. Here is a guide to some of the common labels you might see:
- Organic: Certified organic turkeys are raised on 100% organic feed, have outdoor access, and are never given antibiotics. This designation has strict USDA requirements.
- **Natural***: The term "natural" indicates that the turkey is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients. It has nothing to do with antibiotic use, how the birds are housed, or their feed. This label is not regulated by the USDA for farm practices.
- No Antibiotics Ever (NAE): This label is a significant differentiator. It means the turkeys were raised without any antibiotics, from the hatchery to processing. For this claim, many producers, like Butterball's Farm to Family line, adhere to USDA-reviewed processes.
- Free-Range: This term means the birds have access to the outdoors. However, the amount and quality of that outdoor access are not strictly defined by the USDA, and it does not guarantee no antibiotics or a specific diet.
- Vegetarian-Fed: Some brands specify that their turkeys are fed an all-vegetarian diet of grains, with no animal by-products. This is an indication of what the bird consumes but does not preclude antibiotic use.
A Comparison of Well-Known Turkey Brands
| Brand | Added Hormones/Steroids | Antibiotic Use | Diet | Other Key Claims |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diestel Family Ranch | No (by law) | No antibiotics ever | 100% vegetarian; pasture-based for some products | Regenerative, humane certified (GAP 5+ for some lines), slow-grown |
| Plainville Farms | No (by law) | Never ever given antibiotics | Vegetarian grain diet | Natural and Certified Organic lines, family farm sourced, humane practices |
| Honeysuckle White | No (by law) | "No growth-promoting antibiotics," used for treatment | Varies, standard line is likely grain-fed | Raised by independent family farmers, USDA verified programs |
| Shady Brook Farms | No (by law) | "No growth-promoting antibiotics," used for treatment | Varies | Raised by independent farmers, USDA verified programs |
| Butterball (Farm to Family) | No (by law) | No antibiotics ever | All-vegetarian diet | Humane certified, family farm raised, specific NAE program |
What to Consider When Choosing a Turkey
Choosing a turkey is no longer about the simple question of whether it contains added hormones, which is a given in the U.S. Instead, your choice depends on a variety of factors based on your priorities. To make an informed decision, consider these points:
- Antibiotic-Free: If avoiding antibiotics is your top concern, look for the "No Antibiotics Ever" label. Brands like Diestel and Butterball (Farm to Family) specifically offer products meeting this standard.
- Diet and Sourcing: The diet of the turkey can impact flavor and nutritional profile. Some brands offer vegetarian-fed or even pasture-raised options. Consider where the turkey is sourced from and if it aligns with your values. Diestel, for instance, emphasizes regenerative farming.
- Animal Welfare: For ethically-minded consumers, certifications from third-party organizations like the American Humane Certified program (which covers some Butterball Farm to Family products) or a GAP (Global Animal Partnership) rating (like Diestel's) are good indicators of higher animal welfare standards.
- Organic vs. Natural: Remember the key difference: organic is a regulated standard that prohibits antibiotics and requires specific feed and living conditions, whereas "natural" is a far less restrictive label.
- Local Farms: Sourcing directly from local, transparent farms can often give you the most peace of mind regarding farming practices.
Conclusion
When shopping for a turkey, the question of "what brand raised turkey without hormones or steroids" is based on a common misconception. The truth is that federal law ensures all U.S. poultry is free of added hormones and steroids. The real decision points for health-conscious consumers lie in evaluating other factors. By looking for labels like "organic," "No Antibiotics Ever," or reputable animal welfare certifications, you can choose a product that truly aligns with your personal values and preferences. This understanding empowers you to look past marketing claims and make an educated purchase.
Consumer Reports offers additional perspectives and tasting reviews on turkey brands, providing further resources for making your selection.
