What the experts want you to know about shopping for poultry.
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Raw chickengets a bad rap.
And, honestly, its for good reason.
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Unfortunately, raw poultry carries serious food safety risks, which can lead to unpleasantfoodborne illness, or worse.
Speaking of health benefits, reading the label can also help determine which chicken is best for you.
None of these labels ensure the chicken is safeits really up to thesupermarket.
Picking safe chicken starts with thesanitation of the supermarket.
says Dru Rosales, MS, RD, LD.
Grocery stores fall under each states health department for inspection.
Heres what to inspect when shopping the poultry aisle to ensure you buy the best chicken possible.
Smell the Chicken
Fresh raw chicken shouldnt have much of a scent.
An off-odor is a sign its going bad or has bacteria on it.
Avoid any stinky chicken, and opt for poultry that is virtually scentless.
Examine the Color
Raw chicken is typically light pink or beige.
Any other colors are a red flag.
Avoid anything that has a gray or green tinge, or has an off-odor, Rosales says.
Check for Package Leaks
Sealed packaging is essential for safe chicken purchases.
You should always inspect packages of chicken for any tears or evidence of leaking, shares Rosales.
With the 2013 outbreak in poultry, theU.S.
Thankfully whole chickens can be easily and safely butchered at home to use in pieces.
How to Safely Transport Raw Chicken
The way you treat your chicken purchase matters.
Raw meats should bebaggedseparately from other food items.
If youre purchasing raw meat, keeping it at a safe temperature is essential.
