While producers of beef place great emphasis on the lifestyle of the animal prior to butchering (i.e., sedentary vs. active), we are told that this is an incidental issue where turkeys are concerned. Being of a naturally lethargic and low-energy disposition, turkeys are not inclined toward physical exercise or exertion; however, some turkey producers opt to at least give the birds the chance to graze during the day in the interest of ethical treatment. Todd Seymour of Moretown, VT states that it is advantageous to keep feed in front of the birds during colder weather because the turkeys increase their calorie intake for warmth, which results in a more desirable yield when their time comes to go to turkey heaven and relinquish their physical selves to the dinner table!
In terms of selecting the "best turkey," multi-generational turkey producer Bob Bearor of Teenie's Tiny Poultry Farm in Norwich, VT recommends that shoppers select a bird with a broader breast--an attribute that suggests an abundance of white meat. The sex of the bird is viewed as incidental--providing that it has been raised and fed according to the conditions mentioned above. Harold Harvey, 20-year turkey producer of the Barn at Gray Rocks in Richmond, VT states that, "the ideal Vermont turkey has been raised on a high-protein diet."
For turkey recipes and more great Holiday recipes visit New England Recipes. Shop online at Hickory Farms for delicious smoked turkey, click here for a Baked Turkey 9-10 lb
delivered to your home or office.
