While most Americans associate turkey carving with the annual Thanksgiving tradition, one industry leader believes the golden-brown bird deserves a place on dinner tables throughout the entire year.
Heidi Diestel, a prominent figure in turkey production, has made it her mission to elevate the perception of turkey from a once-a-year holiday centerpiece to a regular protein option for health-conscious consumers.
“I never get tired of eating turkey because the way we raise it is healthy and has a lot of flavor,” she said, emphasizing the nutritional benefits and taste profile that make turkey an attractive alternative to other meats.
Diestel’s perspective reflects a growing movement within the poultry industry to position turkey as a versatile, nutrient-dense protein that can compete with chicken, beef, and pork in everyday meal planning. This shift comes as consumers increasingly seek leaner meat options that align with health-conscious dietary choices.
The turkey industry has long grappled with seasonal demand patterns, with consumption traditionally spiking during the November and December holiday season before dropping significantly throughout the rest of the year. Industry advocates like Diestel are working to change this narrative by highlighting turkey’s year-round versatility and nutritional advantages.
Turkey meat is naturally lower in fat and calories compared to many other protein sources, while providing essential nutrients including high-quality protein, B vitamins, and minerals. These health benefits, combined with improved farming practices that Diestel references, are positioning turkey as an attractive option for modern consumers focused on both taste and nutrition.
The push to normalize year-round turkey consumption represents a significant business opportunity for producers who have historically relied heavily on holiday sales to drive annual revenue. By successfully expanding consumer acceptance beyond traditional seasonal boundaries, the industry could potentially stabilize demand patterns and create new market opportunities throughout the calendar year.
