What is the difference between turkey and chicken?
In this brief article, we will answer the question, “What is the difference between turkey and chicken?” and provide information on the flavor difference between the two, their nutritional values, whether turkey eggs are commonly consumed, the symbolism associated with both birds as well as how to care for both of them.
What is the difference between turkey and chicken?
The main difference between turkey and chicken is that turkey is heavier than chicken. The feathers on the body of a turkey are darker. However, they do not have any feathers on their head and neck.
A chicken has more colorful feathers than a turkey. Turkeys are larger and they cost more than chickens. Besides, unlike chickens, turkeys are not consumed every day. They are only consumed during festive seasons like Thanksgiving.
The sounds of a chicken and a turkey are pretty different. A chicken prefers to cluck whereas a turkey prefers to gobble.
Which tastes better between chicken and turkey?
Both chicken and turkey taste good as each of them have its own unique taste. A chicken has a rich and mild taste. On the other hand, a turkey has a rich and juicy flavor. Turkey is tougher in comparison to chicken. The meat is also darker.
Chicken is easier to digest as the texture of chicken meat is soft. On the other hand, turkey is harder to digest as it is tougher. However, it is also important to note that the flavor of chicken can vary based on its breed.
Is there a difference in nutritional value between chicken and turkey?
Yes, there can be a difference in nutritional value between chicken and turkey. Turkey does not contain much fat compared to chicken and is comparatively lean.
As a result, you can substitute turkey for chicken in weight loss diets. Chicken contains a higher amount of cholesterol, calories, and fats. It also contains niacin, iron, selenium, and B vitamins. Turkey also has all of these nutrients.
Additionally, it has riboflavin and zinc. Turkey has higher levels of magnesium and phosphorus. Chicken contains more iron and potassium compared to turkey.
Are turkey eggs consumed like chicken eggs?
No, turkey eggs are not commonly consumed like chicken eggs. This is because turkey has a longer laying time for eggs. The eggs are also pretty expensive as turkeys do not commonly lay eggs like chickens.
Turkeys only lay 100 eggs a year compared to chickens which might lay around 200-250 eggs. Turkeys also might lay more eggs during spring than in other seasons.
What do turkeys and chickens symbolize?
Turkeys are mostly associated with prosperity, generosity, and happiness. It can also indicate friendship, gratefulness, and generosity.
Male and female chickens have different symbolism. For instance, male chickens are associated with aggression, courage, and masculinity whereas female chickens can be associated with care, protection, and domesticity.
Chickens can have negative connotations too. Chickens are sometimes associated with cowardice or fear in certain idioms and phrases.
How to care for turkeys and chickens?
The caring methods for turkeys and chickens are different. Turkeys require more space to grow as they are larger in size.
Turkeys that are of a larger breed can quickly gain weight. It is important to closely check their diet and feeds. Unlike larger breed chickens, turkeys might not gorge much on food but they might still gain weight quickly.
Compared to chicken chicks, turkey breeds might require more protein and niacin in their feeds. Protein can be fed frequently to turkeys but be aware of the portion size. Too much protein can result in weight gain too.
Free-feeding chickens using a large hanging feeder is not a problem. However, free-feeding turkeys are not recommended.
Both chickens and turkeys require clean drinking water. If any sliminess or debris is observed in the water, it would be better to immediately replace the water.
A shallow dish with water is recommended to be kept for chicks as there have been instances of chicks drowning in water and dying.
In the case of chickens, it is important to collect the eggs and check whether they are of good quality. If your chickens do not lay eggs, it is likely because they are stressed. Creating a good and stress-free environment for their growth is essential.
In the case of turkeys, they do not lay eggs much. Turkeys are mostly reared for meat. As a result, focus on feeding them well.
Conclusion
In this brief article, we have answered the question, “What is the difference between turkey and chicken?” and provided information on the flavor difference between the two, their nutritional values, whether turkey eggs are commonly consumed, the symbolism associated with both birds as well as how to care for both of them.
