Is Ground Turkey Considered Fatty? The Lean Truth

December 20, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Canadian Turkey marketing board, standard ground turkey has just 8.7 grams of fat per 100-gram serving, which is considered extra lean. The answer to "is ground turkey considered fatty?" is not a simple yes or no, as its fat content depends heavily on the specific blend and cut of meat used.

Quick Summary

Ground turkey's fat content varies significantly based on its lean-to-fat ratio, ranging from very lean to more moderate. This is determined by whether the ground meat is made from white meat, dark meat, or a combination. Choosing leaner varieties offers a lower calorie and saturated fat option compared to standard ground beef.

Key Points

Variety is Key: The fat content of ground turkey varies significantly based on the blend, so always check the lean-to-fat ratio on the packaging.
Not Inherently Fatty: The leanest varieties, typically made from white breast meat, can be up to 99% fat-free and are very low in calories.
Comparison with Ground Beef: Lean ground turkey (e.g., 93/7) has similar total fat to lean ground beef of the same ratio, but often contains less saturated fat.
Processed vs. Fresh: Processed turkey products like sausage or bacon can be high in sodium and additives, and may contain more fat than fresh ground turkey.
White vs. Dark Meat: Ground turkey from white meat is leaner and drier, while dark meat versions offer more flavor and moisture but higher fat content.
A Healthy Option: When chosen wisely (lean cuts), ground turkey is an excellent source of protein and can be a heart-healthy part of a balanced diet.

Understanding the Different Types of Ground Turkey

To truly answer the question, "Is ground turkey considered fatty?", it's important to understand that not all ground turkey is created equal. Grocery stores offer a range of products, with the fat content clearly labeled as a lean-to-fat ratio, such as 93/7 or 85/15. The source of the meat—white meat from the breast or dark meat from the legs and thighs—is the primary factor determining the final fat percentage.

White Meat vs. Dark Meat Ground Turkey

White Meat (e.g., 99% Fat-Free): This is the leanest option, typically made from turkey breast meat. It's extremely low in fat but can become dry if overcooked. This variety is ideal for those strictly monitoring their fat and calorie intake. Cooking with moisture-rich ingredients like sauces or using methods like simmering can prevent it from drying out.
Combination (e.g., 93/7): This is the most common blend, combining both white and dark meat. The higher fat content (around 7%) provides more flavor and moisture compared to the all-white-meat version. It's a popular "happy medium" for everyday cooking.
Dark Meat (e.g., 85/15): Ground turkey made primarily from dark meat (thighs and legs) has a higher fat percentage. This results in a richer flavor and moister texture. While higher in fat, it is still generally leaner than standard ground beef.

Ground Turkey vs. Ground Beef: A Nutritional Comparison

One of the most frequent comparisons is between ground turkey and ground beef. For decades, ground turkey has been hailed as the leaner alternative, but a fair comparison requires looking at similar lean-to-fat ratios.


Nutritional Aspect	93/7 Ground Turkey (per 3 oz)	93/7 Ground Beef (per 3 oz)
Calories	~170 kcal	~178 kcal
Protein	~22g	~25g
Total Fat	~8g	~8g
Saturated Fat	~2.5g	~3g
Iron	~1.2mg	~3mg
Flavor Profile	Milder, takes on other flavors	More distinctive, savory flavor
Best For...	Weight management, low saturated fat diet	Higher iron intake, richer flavor

As the comparison table shows, when looking at a similar 93/7 blend, the nutritional differences are minimal, especially concerning total fat. The key advantage of ground turkey lies in its lower saturated fat content and slightly fewer calories.

Is Processed Ground Turkey Fatty? Beware of Added Ingredients

It's important to differentiate between fresh ground turkey and processed turkey products. While fresh, lean ground turkey is a healthy choice, items like turkey sausage or bacon often contain high amounts of sodium and other additives. The fat content in these processed alternatives can also be significantly higher than in fresh ground meat. Always check the nutrition label for sodium levels and fat content on any processed turkey products. The American Heart Association recommends choosing lean cuts of meat and poultry over processed forms.

How to Choose the Right Ground Turkey for Your Health Goals

To select the right ground turkey, consider your dietary needs and cooking style:

For maximum leanness: Choose packages labeled 99% fat-free or very lean. This is the best option for those focused on strict calorie and fat reduction.
For balanced flavor and moisture: Opt for the 93/7 blend. It's versatile for many recipes without adding excessive fat.
For rich flavor: If your priority is a fuller flavor, the 85/15 blend, while higher in fat, still offers a healthier profile than many ground beef counterparts.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Ground Turkey's Fat Content

Contrary to a blanket assertion, whether or not ground turkey is fatty is entirely dependent on the specific product. By reading the packaging, consumers can make informed choices to align with their nutritional goals. When selecting lean or extra-lean ground turkey, it is a healthy, protein-rich alternative that is low in saturated fat, supporting heart health and weight management. For the healthiest results, pair your ground turkey with vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while being mindful of processed versions.

Frequently Asked Questions

While 85% lean ground turkey has more fat than leaner varieties like 93/7, it still has a more favorable fat profile than many types of standard ground beef, making it a moderately fatty, yet still a good choice for many people.

When comparing similar lean-to-fat ratios (e.g., 93/7), lean ground turkey often has slightly less saturated fat and fewer calories than lean ground beef, making it a heart-healthy choice. However, both can be part of a nutritious diet.

To prevent lean ground turkey from becoming dry, cook it with added moisture from ingredients like sauces, vegetables, or herbs. You can also mix it with a higher-fat blend or add moisture-rich ingredients to the mix, such as finely grated onion or breadcrumbs.

Yes, all ground turkey contains some saturated fat, though the amount depends on the lean-to-fat ratio. Leaner blends have much lower levels. For example, 93% lean ground turkey has significantly less saturated fat than fattier ground beef.

Ground turkey is darker and fattier when it is made from dark meat, which comes from the legs and thighs of the turkey. This higher fat content provides more flavor and moisture compared to ground turkey made exclusively from white breast meat.

Yes, 99% fat-free ground turkey is an excellent option for weight loss. It is extremely low in calories and fat while providing a high amount of protein, which helps promote a feeling of fullness.

No. While fresh, lean ground turkey is a healthy option, processed turkey products like sausages, deli meats, and bacon are often high in sodium and additives. Always read the nutrition label to understand the full content.