What Type of Bird are You? Domesticated or Free-Ranging?
The
turkey industry loves the Thanksgiving season – and we love the turkey
industry. Most of us will sift through the frozen section, looking for
the perfect bird. The ideal specimen will be hard as a rock and ready
to be of service. We can't inspect the flesh, but we know that after it
has thawed, it will be cooked and reach its final resting place – a
pretty platter or carving board.
Those
familiar rounded mounds of birds are referred to as "factory" fowl and
will always command the largest segment of sales. They are bred and
raised for size and carefully tended for health. Big, plump white
breasts and a low price make them a beautiful sight. Some receive broth
and butter injections, which makes it easy for both first-time and
seasoned cooks to produce a tender, juicy turkey.
Other types of turkeys are receiving a boost in popularity. These fall into the organic,
free-ranging, and heritage categories. They are more expensive and
harder to find, but many people enjoy the taste and benefits of a true
farm-raised bird.
Bear
in mind that these are not "wild" turkeys. The taste is rich and
satisfying and there is a greater ratio of dark to white meat. Many
claim that the flavor is more intense as the birds are slow-growers
compared to the traditional whites of supermarket fame. The profile is
different – breasts are not as plump.
Labeling
may be confusing, however. Little oversight is required for most
non-standard turkeys, with the exclusion of those that are organically
raised. To receive an organic label, producers must have been approved
by USDA standards for meeting stringent requirements in many areas. The
birds and their surroundings are monitored while alive as well as
during processing and packaging.
Free-ranging
birds are allowed outdoors, but there are no specifications as to how
much fresh air they must receive each day. Nor is there a guarantee
that access is under ideal conditions with regard to quality and size
of space.
Heritage
birds are also receiving attention. These are bred from "heirloom"
breeds, many of which became extinct decades ago. Their revival is
exciting. Heritage varieties are also free-ranging and typically
receive no growth hormones or antibiotics.
You
may also see birds labeled as "natural." That can be a bit misleading.
This indicates that the turkey is free of preservatives and coloring
that alter the appearance. Nothing more.
When
you are ready to walk on the wild side of Thanksgiving traditions, be
sure to visit a trusted vendor. He or she will be familiar with the
history of the turkey during its gobbling days and its journey from
farm to market.
Try these tempting side dishes filled with organic ingredients:
Butternut Squash with Wild Mixed Organic Mushrooms in Tam
Organic Roasted Caramelized Fruit
Organic Penne Salad with Cilantro, Lime and Mint