What is the healthiest brand of deli turkey?

October 16, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the USDA, an estimated 85% of Americans consume processed meats, which often contain high levels of sodium and preservatives. When asking what is the healthiest brand of deli turkey, the answer lies in seeking products with the simplest ingredients, lowest sodium, and a minimal use of preservatives. This article breaks down the healthiest options available for your sandwiches and snacks.

Quick Summary

The healthiest deli turkey brands prioritize simple ingredients, low sodium, and avoid artificial preservatives. Key brands to consider include Applegate, Boar's Head, and Diestel, which offer high-quality, minimally processed, and sometimes organic options. Factors like sodium content, the absence of nitrates, and responsible animal sourcing should guide your choice for a healthier option.

Key Points

Low Sodium: The healthiest deli turkey has significantly lower sodium content than standard versions, reducing the risk of high blood pressure.
No Added Nitrates/Nitrites: Look for uncured options with no artificial or natural nitrates, as these can form potentially harmful compounds in the body.
Minimally Processed: The best brands use simple, recognizable ingredients, avoiding fillers, artificial flavors, and excessive processing.
Ethical Sourcing: Brands like Diestel and Applegate prioritize humane animal treatment, offering products from vegetarian-fed, antibiotic-free turkeys.
Key Brands: Top options for healthy deli turkey include Applegate Naturals, Diestel Family Ranch, Boar's Head Simplicity, and Plainville Farms.
Read Labels: Always compare nutrition facts and ingredient lists across brands to find the best fit for your dietary needs.

Understanding the Healthiest Deli Turkey Criteria

When navigating the deli counter, discerning a truly healthy turkey option goes beyond a simple label. The primary factors to scrutinize are sodium content, the type and presence of preservatives, and how the animal was raised. Minimally processed products are often the best choice, as they contain fewer additives. Some products labeled "natural" may still contain preservatives like cultured celery powder, which converts to nitrates in the body, so reading the ingredient list is critical.

The Importance of Sodium Content

Sodium is a major concern in many deli meats, as it is used for curing and preservation. High sodium intake is linked to increased blood pressure and heart disease risk. Healthy choices will explicitly offer "lower sodium" or "no salt added" versions. For reference, a single serving of processed deli meat can contain a third of the recommended daily sodium intake.

Deciphering Nitrate and Nitrite Labels

Nitrates and nitrites are added to preserve color and prevent bacteria growth. While some manufacturers add synthetic nitrates, others use natural sources like celery powder. However, your body processes both similarly, producing potentially harmful compounds called nitrosamines. Opting for "uncured" products that list minimal ingredients can reduce your exposure. Look for brands that explicitly state "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added."

The Role of Responsible Sourcing

For many health-conscious consumers, how the turkey was raised is also a consideration. Look for labels indicating “organic,” “certified humane,” “pasture-raised,” or “no antibiotics ever.” These certifications suggest better animal welfare standards and a cleaner final product, free from the antibiotics or hormones used in conventional farming.

Top Contenders for the Healthiest Deli Turkey

Several brands consistently rank high for their commitment to cleaner, healthier deli meats. Here are some of the most prominent options:

Applegate Naturals: A favorite for many due to its simple ingredient list and commitment to humane animal treatment. Their oven-roasted turkey breast is a top choice, featuring significantly lower sodium than many competitors.
Diestel Family Ranch: This brand is committed to antibiotic-free, non-GMO, and humanely raised turkeys. They offer several varieties, including a low-sodium oven-roasted option, making them a premium choice for those who prioritize ethical sourcing.
Boar's Head Simplicity: Boar's Head offers a line called "Simplicity" designed for cleaner eating. Their All Natural Roasted Turkey Breast is uncured, minimally processed, and contains no preservatives. They also have lower-sodium options available.
Plainville Farms: Known for their humanely raised, vegetarian-fed turkeys, Plainville Farms offers both organic and conventional lines of pre-sliced turkey breast. They offer a "no salt added" version for those closely monitoring their sodium intake.
True Story Organic: A newer entry in the healthy deli meat market, True Story offers organic, free-range turkey breast that is minimally processed and contains no artificial ingredients, nitrates, or nitrites.
Thumann's: A family-owned brand with an all-natural line of products, Thumann's focuses on minimal processing, low fat, and low sugar options. Their turkey is free of antibiotics, nitrates, and other common additives.

Comparison Table: Healthiest Deli Turkey Brands


Brand	Noteworthy Qualities	Sodium (per 2oz serving)	Nitrates/Nitrites	Animal Sourcing	Availability
Applegate Naturals	Simple ingredients, lower sodium options, good value.	Low (approx. 250mg)	No nitrates or nitrites added.	Humanely raised.	Widespread
Diestel Family Ranch	Ethically raised, low-sodium varieties.	Low (approx. 240mg)	No nitrates or nitrites added.	Humane, vegetarian-fed.	Specialty/Limited
Boar's Head Simplicity	Minimally processed, heart-healthy options.	Varies; Low Sodium versions available.	Uncured/No preservatives.	Varies by product line.	Widespread
Plainville Farms	"No Salt Added" options, organic available.	Varies; "No Salt Added" is very low.	No added nitrates/nitrites.	Humanely raised, organic available.	Widespread
True Story Organic	Organic, free-range, clean ingredients.	Low	No nitrates or nitrites added.	Organic, ethically raised.	Specialty/Limited
Thumann's	All-natural line, minimal processing.	Low	No nitrates or nitrites added.	Varies by product.	Varies

Making Your Final Choice

Ultimately, the healthiest choice depends on your specific dietary needs and preferences. While the brands listed above are excellent starting points, you should always double-check the labels for sodium, ingredients, and certifications, as products and recipes can change. For the absolute cleanest option, consider roasting your own turkey breast at home, which gives you complete control over all ingredients and seasonings.

Conclusion

Choosing the healthiest brand of deli turkey requires careful consideration of sodium, preservatives, and sourcing. By focusing on minimally processed, uncured options from brands like Applegate, Diestel, and Boar's Head, consumers can enjoy delicious turkey while making a conscious, health-informed decision. Reading nutrition labels and understanding the difference between uncured and naturally cured products is your best defense against unhealthy additives. The best deli turkey is the one that aligns with your health goals and personal values, offering a clean, simple, and satisfying experience.

How to Find the Best Deli Turkey for You

To help you pick the perfect turkey for your next sandwich or salad, here is a simple guide:

Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredients and nutrition facts. A shorter, simpler ingredient list is often better.
Seek "Lower Sodium": Look for low or reduced sodium options, especially if you have high blood pressure or other health concerns.
Choose "Uncured": Opt for products marked "uncured" with "No Nitrates or Nitrites Added." Just be aware of natural curing agents like celery powder.
Prioritize Transparency: Brands that are transparent about their animal sourcing and processing methods are often better choices.
Shop at Multiple Stores: Don't limit yourself to one supermarket. Specialty stores, health food stores, and butcher shops may carry higher-quality, lesser-known brands.
Try Online Ordering: If local options are limited, consider ordering from specialty meat purveyors online who focus on high-quality, ethically sourced products.

Following these steps will ensure you are making the most informed decision possible for your health.

Applegate's website offers more details about their natural and organic product lines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brands such as Plainville Farms offer 'no salt added' varieties, while others like Applegate Naturals and Diestel Family Ranch have lower sodium options compared to traditional deli meats. Always check the nutrition facts on the specific product packaging.

Yes, uncured deli turkey is generally healthier because it does not contain added synthetic nitrates or nitrites. However, some uncured products use natural sources like celery powder, which still convert to nitrates, so always review the full ingredient list.

Organic turkey adheres to strict USDA regulations, ensuring the turkey was raised on organic feed and without antibiotics. The term "natural" is much less regulated and generally only indicates minimal processing and no artificial ingredients, but offers no guarantees about farming practices.

Boar's Head offers a variety of turkey products, including the "Simplicity" line, which is uncured and minimally processed. Their products are generally considered a solid choice, especially their lower-sodium options, but it is important to read the labels for the specific product you choose.

The healthiest deli turkey contains minimal to no artificial preservatives. Some use natural curing agents, but brands like Applegate and Diestel focus on simple, clean ingredients for their products.

Yes, making your own deli turkey at home is an excellent way to have complete control over ingredients, sodium, and preservatives. You can simply roast a turkey breast and slice it thinly for fresh, additive-free lunch meat.

Healthier deli turkey brands can be found at supermarkets in the natural foods section, specialty grocery stores like Whole Foods and Trader Joe's, and increasingly at conventional retailers. For the widest selection, check health food stores or reputable online purveyors.