Whether it be enjoying a big turkey dinner during the holidays, or simply enjoying a turkey sandwich, turkey is a staple in many people’s diet. But how much do you know about turkey and turkey production? Durham Farm Connections is passionate about teaching the public about the food they are eating, and how farmers produce it. Ontario produces 45% of all turkeys grown in Canada! Today, we will be talking all about turkey!
TURKEY FACT: A Hen is an adult, female turkey. They make a “clicking” sound but don’t gobble
Turkey-A nutritional SUPEROOD!
Turkey is a tasty, lean protein that is naturally low in cholesterol and provides essential nutrients such as niacin, zinc, and vitamins B6 and B12, which help booster heart health while lowering cancer risks. In fact, turkey is such a nutritional powerhouse that it is the only meat protein to have every been labeled a superfood.
So, where do they live?
Turkeys are raised in specially designed, environmentally controlled barns that provide protection from predators, disease and bad weather conditions. Turkeys are not kept in cages and are free to roam on floors that are covered with soft bedding. The environment is monitored on an ongoing basis to ensure access to feed and water, adequate, lighting, temperature, air quality, and space per bird. Day old turkey’s (poults) come from the hatchery and are placed in a Brooding Barn, where they are kept warm and given special care for the first five to six weeks of life. Turkeys are then moved into a growing barn. There is plenty of space to move about and birds stay here till they grow to their market weight!
What do Turkey’s eat?
Ever wondered what Turkey’s eat? Turkeys are fed nutritionally balanced diets of mixed grains and oil seeds, which typically include corn, wheat, barley, soybean meal and canola meal. This helps with healthy growth and development. Turkeys have free access to feed 24 hours a day, which means they can help themselves to food or water anytime.
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Durham Farm Connections is a volunteer organization passionate about educating the community about agriculture and all things food.
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