The Variable Weight of Hillshire Turkey Slices
Determining the exact weight of a single slice of Hillshire turkey is complex because the company produces several product lines, each with different slice thicknesses. For consumer markets, the most reliable information is on the product's packaging, which specifies serving size by ounces and the number of slices. Hillshire Farm provides detailed specifications regarding slice size for bulk purchasing of foodservice products.
Factors that influence turkey slice weight
Several variables determine how much a single slice of Hillshire turkey weighs. These factors include:
- Product Line: The weight of a slice from the 'Ultra Thin Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast' will be considerably less than a slice from a 'Homestyle' or 'Thick Sliced' product.
- Slice Thickness: Some foodservice products are portioned to a specific weight per slice, for instance, 0.67 oz, to ensure consistency in commercial applications.
- Serving Size: The nutrition facts label on consumer packaging specifies a serving size in ounces and provides a corresponding number of slices. For example, a 2 oz serving of ultra-thin slices might contain 6 slices, while a thicker cut might contain fewer slices for the same weight.
- Moisture Content: The way the turkey is cooked and packaged can affect its moisture content, which plays a small role in the final weight of each slice. Slow-cooking processes, like those used for some Hillshire Farm products, help lock in juices, contributing to the weight.
Examples by Product Type
To illustrate the differences in slice weight, let's compare some common Hillshire Farm turkey products. A review of different product labels reveals distinct serving sizes and slice counts, which allows us to calculate an average slice weight.
- Ultra Thin Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast: The nutrition label for a 9 oz package often indicates that 6 slices constitute a 2 oz serving. To find the average weight per slice, you divide the serving size by the number of slices: 2 oz / 6 slices ≈ 0.33 oz per slice. This is a significantly lighter slice designed for sandwiches where many layers are desired.
- Foodservice Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast: Commercial products sometimes list the exact weight per slice for precise portion control. One foodservice variant is advertised as having 0.67 oz slices. These are noticeably thicker and heartier than the ultra-thin consumer version.
- Naturals Slow Roasted Turkey Breast: Another consumer product may define its serving size differently. For example, a serving might be listed as 3 slices for a 52g (1.83 oz) portion. This works out to approximately 0.61 oz per slice, closer in weight to the thicker foodservice version.
Comparison Table: Hillshire Turkey Slice Weight
| Product Type | Serving Size (Weight) | Number of Slices per Serving | Approximate Weight per Slice (oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra Thin Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast | 2 oz (56g) | 6 slices | ~0.33 oz |
| Foodservice Sliced Oven Roasted Turkey Breast | Specified | 1 slice | 0.67 oz |
| Naturals Slow Roasted Turkey Breast | 1.83 oz (52g) | 3 slices | ~0.61 oz |
| Other Hillshire Products | Varies | Varies | Variable |
Beyond the Label: Why Weight Matters
Understanding how many ounces is a slice of Hillshire turkey is more than just a curiosity; it's essential for nutrition planning, dietary management, and even recipe accuracy. For those monitoring calorie intake or protein consumption, knowing the weight per slice allows for precise portioning. Since different product lines have varying fat and sodium content, a smaller, lighter slice of one product is not nutritionally equivalent to a larger, heavier slice from another. This is particularly important for individuals with specific health considerations, such as managing sodium intake. For commercial kitchens or home cooks, portion consistency ensures that recipes turn out the same every time and that food costs are accurately managed.
Conclusion
While a definitive, single number for the weight of a slice of Hillshire turkey does not exist, the answer can be determined by consulting the specific product's nutrition label. The weight per slice depends heavily on the product line, such as 'Ultra Thin' or 'Homestyle.' As a general guideline, consumer ultra-thin slices are often around 0.33 oz, while thicker or foodservice slices can be closer to 0.67 oz. Always check the packaging for the most accurate serving size information, as this is the most reliable way to know exactly how many ounces is a slice of Hillshire turkey for your purchase.
Note: Specific Hillshire Farm product lines and their packaging details can change. For the most current information, it is best to check the manufacturer's website or the product's physical label.
Sources and Additional Information
For those interested in exploring further nutritional details or product specifications, official sources are the most reliable. For example, Hillshire Farm's parent company, Tyson Foodservice, provides in-depth product information for commercial customers. The USDA also offers general guidance on typical deli meat portion sizes.
