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We have wild turkeys living in our neighborhood. They are here year round and quite frequently decide to saunter across the street as I’m pulling out of my driveway. We generally sit in the car and watch them as they make their way to safety. They are magnificent creatures, with a wing span sometimes up to almost 5 feet. I always chuckle this time of year and wonder why they’re not in hiding with Thanksgiving right around the corner. I’m sure deep down they are very grateful that their relatives, the domesticated turkeys [2], are the turkeys who end up on many of our holiday tables.
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What is an organic turkey?
This year I’ve noticed more organic turkey options at a few of the local markets in the Boston area. It’s nice to see a variety of options available. Turkeys certified organic by the USDA are raised without antibiotics and growth enhancers.
Here are a few of the key requirements for organic poultry [4]:
- Must be raised organically on certified organic land
- Must be fed certified organic feed. The feed cannot contain animal by-products, antibiotics or genetically engineered grains and cannot be grown using persistent pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
- No antibiotics or added growth hormones are allowed*
- Must have outdoor access
*Federal regulations prohibit the use of hormones in raising pork and poultry.
Why buy an organic turkey?
Choosing organic foods when we can is a simple way to impact our own personal health and the health of our planet. Organic turkey is certified to be free of harmful chemicals, antibiotics, hormones and GMOs (which could be in the feed of conventional turkeys)-all things that we don’t want to unnecessarily put into our bodies. Buying an organic turkey can be expensive, so it’s understandably a personal choice.
Where to buy an organic turkey
It’s hard to believe, but you can purchase an organic turkey online! Check out this Whole Organic Turkey 12-14lbs [5] from Wisconsin (I grew up in Wisconsin so it must be delicious!):
“Whole Organic Turkey [5]
If you don’t have any local farms or markets selling organic turkey then buying online might work for you. Depending upon where you live, there seem to be plenty of local supermarkets and farms catering to the organic turkey demand.
Are you planning to eat organic turkey this Thanksgiving?
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photo credit: Wild Turkey Trot [7] via photopin [8] (license), [9] Grilled Thanksgiving Turkey [10] via photopin [8] (license)