Pasture-Raised vs. Free-Range Turkey

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. It's time to think about turkey!

At Green Ridge Acres, we like to stock healthy meats for our customers, and pasture-raised turkeys are one of the options we have available.

What are the benefits of pasture-raised turkey meat?

Nutrient Density
Pasture-raised turkeys roam outside, foraging on a natural diet of grasses, insects, and plants. This diverse diet leads to meat that is richer in essential nutrients, including vitamins (such as B vitamins and vitamin D) and minerals (like selenium and zinc), compared to turkeys that don’t go outside.

Lower Fat Content
Pasture-raised turkeys tend to have a lower fat content than their conventionally raised counterparts, making them an excellent choice for those wanting to manage their fat intake without sacrificing flavor.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The pasture-based diet of these turkeys enhances the Omega-3 fatty acid profile of their meat. Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and heart-healthy benefits.

No Antibiotics and Hormones
Our pasture-raised turkeys are raised without antibiotics or growth hormones, contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable food source. 

Sometimes consumers can be confused by meat labels. Perhaps you have seen turkeys labeled as “free-range.” What does that mean? Is a free-range turkey the same as a pasture-raised turkey? Let’s take a look.

What is the difference between free-range and pasture-raised turkeys?

It's important to note that "free-range" and "pasture-raised" are terms often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences:

Free-Range Turkeys

  • These turkeys have some outdoor access, but the specific conditions can vary greatly. 

  • They might still be confined to overcrowded spaces with limited access to the outdoors. 

  • The quality of their diet and living conditions may not be as ideal as those of pasture-raised turkeys. 

  • There is no standards that regulate the size or condition of the outdoor area, how accessible it is to the birds, or even how long a turkey needs to be outside.


Pasture-Raised Turkeys

  • In contrast, pasture-raised turkeys spend a significant portion of their lives outdoors, foraging on grass and insects. 

  • They have more space to roam and lead a more natural, stress-free life. 

  • This leads to superior meat quality and greater nutritional benefits.

When choosing turkey meat for your meals, pasture-raised options can offer you a healthier, more environmentally sustainable choice. It also means you can enjoy delicious turkey dishes while supporting responsible farming practices.

Our pasture-raised turkeys spend their entire lives out of doors, except the first 4-5 weeks when they are just babies and need the protection of the barn. Our turkeys are also non-GMO fed. 

Come explore the selection of pasture-raised turkeys at Green Ridge Farm Market and serve a Thanksgiving turkey you can feel good about. 

Jared Nolt