Are you a turkey lover who just can't get enough of that crispy, golden skin? Or are you trying to lose weight and wondering if you should steer clear of this tasty treat? One pound of young tom turkey skin contains a whopping 1669 calories, making it a high calorie food that should be consumed in moderation.

But don't let its calorie content discourage you from adding some crispy goodness to your meals. Turkey skin is also packed with important nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about turkey skin nutrition, including its macronutrient profile, preparation options, health risks, benefits, and more.

What is a young tom turkey?

A young tom turkey is a male turkey that has been raised specifically for its meat. These turkeys are typically slaughtered between 16-20 weeks of age and are known for their tender, juicy meat and crispy skin. Since young tom turkeys have not yet fully matured, their skin is thinner and more delicate than that of older toms or hens. This makes it easier to achieve that perfect crispy texture without overcooking the meat.

Why is the skin high in calories?

Turkey skin is high in calories mainly because of its fat content. One gram of fat contains 9 calories, compared to 4 calories per gram of carbohydrate or protein. Since turkey skin is also relatively low in water and fiber, it is considered to be a calorie-dense food that can quickly add up if consumed in large amounts.

What are the macronutrients in turkey skin?

One pound of young tom turkey skin contains approximately 195 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 1 gram of protein. The types of fat found in turkey skin include saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats, all of which play important roles in the body. Additionally, turkey skin is also a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin K, selenium, and zinc.

How can turkey skin be prepared?

Turkey skin can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on your preference and cooking method. Some popular options include:

• Baked - Place the turkey skin on a baking sheet and bake in the oven until crispy.
• Fried - Cut the turkey skin into small pieces and deep fry until golden brown and crispy.
• Grilled - Brush the turkey skin with oil or seasonings and grill until crispy.

Remember to always season the turkey skin with salt or other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.

What are the health risks of consuming turkey skin?

Consuming too much turkey skin can lead to several health risks, particularly if you're already overweight or obese. The high calorie content of turkey skin can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess, which in turn increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Additionally, since turkey skin is high in saturated fat, consuming too much can also raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Are there any benefits to eating turkey skin?

While consuming too much turkey skin can be detrimental to your health, there are also some benefits to adding small amounts to your meals.

• Protein - Turkey skin is a good source of protein, which is important for muscle growth and repair.
• Healthy Fats - The types of fat found in turkey skin, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health.
• Vitamins and Minerals - Turkey skin is a good source of several important micronutrients, such as vitamin E, vitamin K, selenium, and zinc.

How much turkey skin is safe to eat?

Since turkey skin is a high calorie food, it is recommended that you consume it in moderation. A serving size of turkey skin should be no more than 1-2 ounces, or about the size of a deck of cards. If you're trying to lose weight or improve your overall health, it's best to limit your consumption of high calorie foods like turkey skin and instead focus on more nutrient-dense options.

What are some alternative turkey skin recipes?

If you love the taste and texture of turkey skin but want to avoid the excess calories and fat, here are some healthy alternatives to try:

• Baked turkey breast - Remove the skin from the turkey breast and bake it on a separate sheet until crispy. This allows you to enjoy the taste and texture of skin without the added fat and calories.
• Turkey jerky - Cut the turkey skin into thin strips and dehydrate in a low-heat oven or dehydrator. This creates a crispy, flavorful snack that is high in protein and low in fat.
• Turkey skin chips - Cut the turkey skin into small pieces and bake in the oven until crispy. Season with salt or other herbs and spices for a healthy, low calorie snack.

What is the nutritional value of turkey skin compared to other foods?

One pound of young tom turkey skin contains approximately 1669 calories, 195 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 1 gram of protein. Here's how it compares to other high calorie foods:

• 1 Pound of Cheese - 1593 calories, 125 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrate, and 98 grams of protein
• 1 Pound of Beef - 1115 calories, 73 grams of fat, 0 grams of carbohydrate, and 104 grams of protein
• 1 Pound of Fried Chicken - 1638 calories, 101 grams of fat, 53 grams of carbohydrate, and 117 grams of protein

While turkey skin is high in calories and fat, it's still a better option than many other high calorie, low nutrient foods.

How should turkey skin be stored?

If you're not planning on using your turkey skin right away, it's important to store it properly to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness. Here are some tips for storing turkey skin:

• Refrigerate - Place the turkey skin in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze - To store for longer periods, place the turkey skin in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
• Thaw - When ready to use, thaw the turkey skin in the refrigerator overnight or in cold water for faster thawing.