Store-bought rotisserie chickens are a convenient and affordable way to feed your family a healthy meal. But, what exactly is in them? Are they processed? And what do labels like “natural”, “organic” and “raised without antibiotics” mean?According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), “natural” means that the food is minimally processed and contains no added artificial ingredients. In other foods, it doesn't have a clearly defined meaning. Consumer Reports' nutrition experts recently evaluated the nutritional information and ingredients of 16 roast chickens found in seven well-known supermarkets.
They discovered that Mark Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken, a member of Sam's Club, was one of the saltiest options of all stores. Chickens are usually seasoned in factories before being sent to stores, earning them their “processed food” title. However, there are some store brands that contain less sodium than others. Roasted chickens from BJ's Wholesale Club (Perdue roast chicken), Boston Market, Publix (Deli Original), Safeway (Signature Café Traditional), Stop & Shop (Nature's Promise and “honey”), Walmart (traditional) and Wegmans (natural non-organic) have less sodium, between 170 and 368 mg. Organic chickens are also an option for those looking for a healthier option. Organic chickens ate certified organic feed and were raised in living conditions that adapted to their health and natural behaviors.
This means they were not continuously confined to small cages and had access to open air, shade, shelter, cleanliness, water and direct sunlight. In addition to being raised without antibiotics, organic chickens ate certified organic feed and were raised in living conditions that adapted to their health and natural behaviors. This means they were not continuously confined to small cages and had access to open air, shade, shelter, cleanliness, water and direct sunlight. According to Food and Drug Administration food labeling regulations, hot roasted chickens don't need to have this information on the package. However, stores with 20 or more locations should have the information available to consumers. So if you're trying to feed your family healthier options, instead of opting for self-service, go to the grocery store and buy a roast chicken.
