U.S. Chicken Producers Debate Definition of “Natural”

Previously the word “natural” could be displayed on any chicken that didn’t contain artificial flavorings or chemical preservatives. However politicians, health advocates and some chicken producers have argued that one third of chicken sold in the U.S. is injected with additives that could represent up to 15 percent of the meat’s weight, doubling or tripling its sodium content.

This argument has prompted to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service to issue a new set of proposed rules this autumn.
Among those pushing for a stricter definition of “natural” is Perdue, the U.S.’s third largest chicken producer.

"Our labels say natural or all natural only if there is nothing added," Perdue Spokesman Luis Luna said. "Under no circumstances is it acceptable to label poultry that has been enhanced with water or broth or solutions as natural, or all natural."

However, Tyson Foods, a larger chicken processor and one of the companies to inject extra salt and water into its chicken, disagrees with the proposals.

"We offer both 100 percent natural enhanced and non-enhanced fresh chicken," Gary Rhodes, a Tyson spokesperson said. "It really depends on what the customer wants. It's all about choice."

However, President of the California Poultry Federation, Bill Mattos said that current labeling rules confused customers.

"With all the talk about food now, all the interest in salt, the chicken industry needs to be very upfront about these issues, and be very truthful," said Mattos.

Read our article about the Honest Labeling movement here.

Edited by Ellie Duncan