1 serving (135 grams) contains 194 calories, 38.5 grams of protein, 4.6 grams of fat, and 0.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
194.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 4.6 g | 5% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.3 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 118.8 mg | 39% | |
| Sodium | 614.2 mg | 26% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 0 g | 0% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0 g | 0% | |
| Sugars | 0 g | ||
| protein | 38.5 g | 77% | |
| Vitamin D | 16.2 mcg | 81% | |
| Calcium | 16.2 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 324 mg | 6% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Turkey leg
Turkey leg, a popular part of the turkey bird, is known for its rich, dark meat and unique flavor. It is commonly associated with traditional American cuisine, particularly Thanksgiving meals, but also features in many global cuisines like Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. Turkey leg is a nutrient-dense food, offering high-quality protein, essential minerals like iron and zinc, and B vitamins like niacin and B6. A 100-gram serving of roasted turkey leg (meat only) provides around 170 calories, 23 grams of protein, 7 grams of fat, and negligible carbohydrates. Its dark meat content makes it slightly higher in fat compared to turkey breast, while also being richer in certain micronutrients.
Health Benefits
- High in protein, supporting muscle maintenance and repair, with approximately 23 grams of protein per 100 grams.
- Provides iron, a key mineral for red blood cell production and oxygen transport in the body, with 1.5 mg per 100 grams.
- Rich in vitamin B6, aiding in energy metabolism and brain health, offering about 0.3 mg per 100 grams.
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store raw turkey legs in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below and cook within 1-2 days. Alternatively, freeze for up to 9 months. Cooked turkey legs should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 days.
Common Questions About Turkey leg Nutrition
Is turkey leg high in protein?
Yes, turkey leg is an excellent source of protein. A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of roasted turkey leg contains approximately 28 grams of protein, which can help with muscle building and repair. It’s a lean meat option compared to fattier cuts of poultry.
Can I eat turkey leg on a keto diet?
Turkey leg is compatible with a keto diet as it is low in carbohydrates, with less than 1 gram of carbs per 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving. Its high protein and moderate fat content align well with keto diet principles.
What are the health benefits of eating turkey leg?
Turkey leg provides several health benefits as it’s rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins (particularly niacin and B6), selenium, and zinc, which support immunity and energy production. However, it can be high in sodium if processed or seasoned, so fresh or minimally processed options are preferred.
How much turkey leg should I eat per serving?
A typical serving size for turkey leg is around 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of cooked meat, which provides approximately 190 calories. Eating this amount ensures you get a substantial dose of protein without overconsuming calories or fat.
How does turkey leg compare to chicken leg nutritionally?
Turkey leg is slightly leaner and offers more protein compared to chicken leg. A 3.5-ounce serving of turkey leg has about 190 calories and 28 grams of protein, whereas the same serving of chicken leg has approximately 212 calories and 25 grams of protein. Turkey is also slightly richer in B vitamins like niacin.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
- USDA FoodData - Turkey leg DataU.S. Department of AgricultureOfficial nutrition data for this specific food item from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's comprehensive food database.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
