What does mechanically separated ground turkey mean?

"Mechanically separated ground turkey" (MST) refers to a type of ground turkey that is produced through a process called mechanical separation. This process uses a machine with a spinning drum that grinds bone-in turkey pieces, separating the meat from the bones.

Here's what makes MST different from regular ground turkey:

* It includes more than just meat: Unlike traditional ground turkey, which only contains meat, MST also includes some connective tissues, cartilage, and even small bone fragments. This is because the machine doesn't perfectly differentiate between meat and other tissues.

* It has a different texture: MST typically has a looser and more grainy texture compared to regular ground turkey, which is finer and smoother.

* It's less expensive: The inclusion of non-meat components makes MST a cheaper option than regular ground turkey.

Pros and Cons of MST:

Pros:

* More affordable: It's a more budget-friendly option.

* Higher yield: It produces a larger volume of ground meat from the same amount of turkey.

Cons:

* Lower quality: It contains less actual meat and more connective tissues, which may result in a less desirable taste and texture.

* Potential health concerns: The presence of small bone fragments may pose a choking hazard, especially for young children and older adults.

* Nutritional differences: MST may have a lower protein content and higher fat content compared to regular ground turkey.

In summary:

While mechanically separated ground turkey can be a budget-friendly option, it's important to be aware of its limitations. It's generally not considered as high-quality as regular ground turkey and may not be suitable for all dishes. If you're looking for the best quality and taste, opt for regular ground turkey.