A Philosophy of Simple Ingredients
Applegate is known for its commitment to sourcing meat from humanely raised animals and using minimal, clean ingredients. This philosophy is reflected in its turkey bacon, which avoids the synthetic additives found in many processed meats. The company's "Natural" and "Organic" product lines offer transparent ingredient lists, allowing consumers to make informed choices about what they eat. The sourcing from family farms where animals are treated with care and not administered antibiotics is a core part of the brand's appeal.
What are the ingredients in Applegate turkey bacon?
Applegate offers two main versions of its turkey bacon: Naturals and Organics. While both use a straightforward approach, there are slight variations in the ingredient list based on their certification standards.
Applegate Naturals Turkey Bacon
For the Naturals product, the list of ingredients is intentionally short and recognizable.
- Turkey: The primary protein source is turkey, specifically from the thigh meat. Applegate specifies that their turkeys are never administered antibiotics.
- Water: Added for moisture and to help distribute the seasonings during the curing process.
- Sea Salt: Used for flavor and as part of the natural curing process.
- Celery Powder: This is a key ingredient used as a natural source of nitrites, which helps preserve the meat and gives it a cured flavor and appearance.
- Onion Powder: A simple spice added for savory flavor.
- Spices: A proprietary blend of spices enhances the taste. One customer review suggests cayenne pepper might be included.
Applegate Organics Turkey Bacon
The Organic version adheres to even stricter guidelines, earning its USDA Organic certification.
- Organic Turkey: Sourced from turkeys raised on organic, vegetarian feed and given more space than industry standards. No antibiotics or growth hormones are used.
- Water: As with the Naturals version, water is added for moisture.
- Sea Salt: A basic seasoning and curing agent.
- Celery Powder: Functions as the natural curing agent.
- Organic Onion Powder: An organic version of the spice is used to comply with the USDA organic standards.
The Flavor and Texture Profile
Applegate's turkey bacon achieves its characteristic smoky flavor through a real hickory wood-smoking process. This differs from some other brands that rely on artificial smoke flavoring. The smoking process also contributes to the meat's texture and color. The use of turkey thigh meat gives it a meaty bite, though it may not achieve the same crispiness as fattier pork belly bacon.
Nutritional Comparison: Applegate vs. Traditional Bacon
When considering turkey bacon as part of a nutritional diet, it's helpful to compare its profile to traditional pork bacon. While Applegate is a leaner option, all processed meats should be consumed in moderation due to their sodium content.
| Feature | Applegate Naturals Turkey Bacon (1 pan-fried slice) | Traditional Pork Bacon (1 pan-fried slice) | Discussion |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~30 calories | ~40-60+ calories | Turkey bacon is generally lower in calories. |
| Total Fat | ~1.5g | ~3-5g | A significant reduction in fat content. |
| Saturated Fat | 0g | ~1-2g | Applegate turkey bacon contains no saturated fat. |
| Protein | ~5g | ~3-4g | Offers a comparable or higher protein content per slice. |
| Sodium | ~150mg | ~150-250mg+ | Sodium levels are still significant in both, requiring moderation. |
| Nitrates/Nitrites | Natural, from celery powder | Often synthetic (sodium nitrite) | A key differentiator for health-conscious consumers. |
| Dietary Suitability | Whole30, Gluten-Free | Often none of the above | Applegate fits specific dietary restrictions better. |
Integrating Applegate into Your Diet
For many, Applegate turkey bacon is a tool for transitioning towards a healthier diet without sacrificing flavor. Its simple, clean ingredient list and favorable nutritional profile (especially lower fat and zero saturated fat) make it a better choice for regular consumption compared to traditional bacon. As a Whole30 and gluten-free certified product (for the Naturals version), it caters to specific dietary needs. However, the sodium content is still present, so portion control remains important.
Conclusion
What are the ingredients in Applegate turkey bacon? The answer is simple and clean: turkey, water, sea salt, celery powder, and natural spices. This minimal, transparent ingredient list, combined with humane sourcing practices, sets it apart from many conventional processed meats. While it offers a leaner and often healthier alternative to pork bacon, it remains a cured meat that is best enjoyed in moderation. By understanding the ingredients, consumers can confidently incorporate this product into a balanced nutritional diet.
