Your Guide to Finding Turkey Bacon Across Australia

Turkey bacon has become an increasingly popular alternative to traditional pork bacon in recent years. With its leaner nutrition profile and versatility in recipes, more Aussies are seeking out this alternative breakfast meat. But turkey bacon can still be tricky to find on shelves compared to the ubiquitous pork bacon options This guide will explore what exactly turkey bacon is, its benefits, and where you can find it across supermarkets and specialty stores in Australia

What is Turkey Bacon?

Turkey bacon is pretty much what it sounds like – bacon made from turkey rather than pork It is made from sliced and cured turkey, usually the breast meat. Turkey bacon is brined or salty-cured, then smoked to add flavor The curing, smoking and slicing process is similar to regular bacon.

The biggest difference is that turkey bacon comes from the lean turkey breast, while pork bacon comes from fattier belly or side cuts. This gives turkey bacon a much leaner nutrition profile. It contains fewer calories, fat, and sodium compared to regular pork bacon.

Turkey bacon delivers savory, smoky, salty flavor reminiscent of regular bacon, but in a lower-fat, lower-calorie package. The leanness means turkey bacon is prone to drying out during cooking so it requires a gentler touch. Overall, turkey bacon makes an appealing alternative for those looking to reduce fat, calories, and sodium in their diets.

The Benefits of Turkey Bacon

There are several key benefits that make turkey bacon an attractive alternative to traditional bacon:

• Fewer calories and fat – Turkey bacon contains around 30 calories and 1 gram of fat per slice compared to 40 calories and 4 grams of fat in pork bacon.

• Less sodium – Turkey bacon has roughly 300 milligrams less sodium per serving compared to pork.

• More protein – Turkey breast meat packs more protein, Turkey bacon provides 7 grams of protein per slice

• Versatile flavor – Turkey bacon has a milder flavor than pork, making it versatile for both savory and sweet dishes.

• Precooked – Turkey bacon is fully cooked when purchased, making preparation easy.

For those looking to reduce fat, sodium, and calories without sacrificing bacon flavor, turkey bacon makes an easy swap. Because it is already fully cooked, turkey bacon is also convenient for quick weeknight dinners or meals on the go.

Where to Buy Turkey Bacon Across Australia

Turkey bacon is becoming more widely available at major grocery store chains nationwide:

Coles

• Coles offers their private label Australian Fresh Turkey Rasher Middle Bacon both prepackaged and at the deli counter.

Woolworths

• Woolworths Select Turkey Bacon Rashers are available prepackaged or by weight from the deli section.

IGA

• IGA stocks Primo Turkey Bacon in the refrigerated meat section.

• Many local IGA delis also slice turkey bacon fresh.

Aldi

• Aldi sells Kirkton House Turkey Bacon nationwide both pre-sliced and in the deli.

In addition to major supermarkets, turkey bacon can also be found at:

Organic Markets

Organic food stores like Flora & Fauna often have prepackaged turkey bacon from brands like Primo.

Butchers & Delis

Local butchers and gourmet deli stores may offer house-cured turkey bacon by weight. This is less processed than pre-packaged.

Online Shops

Online meat delivery services like Australian Premium Meats sell turkey bacon that ships frozen straight to your door.

Amazon

Amazon Australia stocks various brands of turkey bacon that qualify for Prime delivery. This provides easy online ordering.

Farmers Markets

As turkey farming grows in Australia, more local farmers markets are starting to sell turkey bacon from regional producers.

No matter where you live in Australia, one of these options should provide a solid turkey bacon source near you. Supermarkets across the country now reliably stock turkey bacon alongside the traditional pork varieties, so it is easy to swap into your weekly shop. For the best quality and selection, check butcher shops, organic grocers, or specialty food stores.

Cooking Tips for Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon requires a more gentle approach during cooking than pork bacon. Follow these tips for crispy, flavorful results:

• Cook over medium to medium-low heat to prevent burning.

• Bake in the oven or convection oven at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.

• Double pan-fry by cooking in water before crisping in oil.

• Avoid overcooking. Turkey bacon goes from done to burnt quickly.

• Add a teaspoon of oil to the pan to crispen without overdrying.

• Heat turkey bacon before serving to warm through if making a sandwich.

With its lower fat and sodium content plus ample protein, turkey bacon offers a healthier take on a breakfast favorite. Use this guide to source turkey bacon across Australia and incorporate it into your morning meal prep.