Calories in Turkey Bacon: Nutrition Facts & Serving Sizes

Turkey bacon is a popular lower-calorie alternative to traditional pork bacon, made from seasoned, cured turkey meat. A single cooked slice contains about 30 calories, roughly half the calories of regular bacon, while still providing a satisfying savory flavor and a moderate amount of protein. Here is a complete breakdown of turkey bacon nutrition by serving size.

Calories by serving size:

Turkey bacon also provides small amounts of niacin, vitamin B6, phosphorus, and selenium. While lower in fat and calories than pork bacon, it is still a processed meat product and should be consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does turkey bacon compare to regular bacon in calories?

Turkey bacon has significantly fewer calories than traditional pork bacon. One slice of cooked turkey bacon contains about 30 calories, while one slice of cooked pork bacon has approximately 43-54 calories depending on thickness. Turkey bacon also has roughly 40-50% less total fat per slice, though the difference narrows when comparing equal weights rather than individual slices.

Is turkey bacon actually healthier than regular bacon?

Turkey bacon is lower in calories, total fat, and saturated fat than pork bacon, which can be beneficial for heart health and weight management. However, turkey bacon is still a processed meat that contains nitrates, sodium, and additives similar to regular bacon. The overall health impact depends on portion size and how frequently it is consumed as part of your total diet.

How much sodium does turkey bacon contain?

Turkey bacon contains about 130 mg of sodium per cooked slice, which can add up quickly with multiple servings. A three-slice serving provides roughly 390 mg of sodium, about 17% of the recommended daily limit of 2,300 mg. Some brands offer reduced-sodium turkey bacon with 25-30% less sodium, which may be a better option for those monitoring salt intake.

How does turkey bacon compare to regular bacon in protein?

Turkey bacon provides about 2 grams of protein per slice, while regular pork bacon provides roughly 3 grams per slice. On a per-calorie basis, both are fairly similar in protein efficiency, but pork bacon delivers slightly more protein per serving. For a substantial protein boost at breakfast, pairing either type of bacon with eggs or Greek yogurt is more effective than relying on bacon alone.

Does turkey bacon taste different from regular bacon?

Turkey bacon has a noticeably different taste and texture compared to pork bacon. It tends to be less smoky, less fatty, and has a slightly chewier texture since turkey meat has less natural fat marbling than pork belly. Many people find that crisping turkey bacon thoroughly in a skillet or oven improves its texture significantly, bringing it closer to the crunch of traditional bacon.