Turkey is one of the most popular proteins consumed around the world and it is particularly popular in the United States. Many people enjoy the taste and versatility of turkey and it is often served as the centerpiece of a meal. But just how large can a turkey get?
The largest turkey on record weighed 86 pounds and was raised by Bernard Dougherty of Pennsylvania in the year 1989. The turkey was a Broad Breasted White variety, which is the most common variety raised for consumption in the United States.
The Broad Breasted White turkey is a hybrid turkey created in the 1950s and is a cross between the White Holland, which is used for egg production, and the Dark Cornish, which is used for meat production. The hybrid was developed to produce a large amount of white meat in a shorter amount of time.
Turkeys can be raised to different sizes, depending on the variety, but the Broad Breasted White is capable of reaching up to 40 pounds in weight. However, in order to reach this weight, turkeys must be fed a high-calorie diet and should be kept in a warm, protected environment.
The Broad Breasted White turkey is the primary type of turkey used in commercial production in the United States and is the main ingredient in most turkey products. It is also the primary breed used in competitive turkey shows, with entrants vying for the title of the largest turkey.
The current world record holder for the largest turkey is a Broad Breasted White turkey, weighing in at 86 pounds. This turkey was raised by Bernard Dougherty of Pennsylvania and was the largest turkey ever recorded. It was officially recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1989.
Since then, many people have attempted to beat the world record and have come close, but so far none have been able to beat the 86-pound turkey. In order to reach this size, turkeys must be fed a high-calorie diet and kept in a warm and protected environment.
The largest turkey on record is an impressive feat and one that may never be exceeded. The 86-pound turkey is a testament to the care, dedication, and skill of the turkey raisers who raised it. It is a reminder of the size and power of a turkey and just how large they can get when given the right care and attention.
