Source: Tom Johnston, MEATINGPLACE, 1/8/16


A new consumer study showing that fewer than half of consumers trust “Natural” labels claims on food products when they shop for groceries highlights the need for USDA to tighten its rules on “natural” label claims for fresh chicken.

The Truthful Label Coalition, made up of natural chicken producers and more than 30,000 citizens in 50 states, said its study confirms that almost three in four consumers believe that fresh chicken labeled as “Natural” should not be pumped with added saltwater and seeweed extract solutions because the label misleads consumers into believing that it is a healthy choice. 

Without saltwater added, chicken should contain only about 60 milligrams of sodium. Pumped with saltwater, that same serviing can contain as much as 400 milligrams of sodium. In addition to posing health concerns, saltwater increases the weight and forces consumers to pay more for the product, TLC noted.

“These finding show that consumers expect much more from 'Natural’ claims on grocery store shelves,” said Lampkin Butts, president and CEO of TLC member company Sanderson Farms, in a news release. “It’s imperative for USDA to act on this important rule. American consumers have already waited too long. 

USDA has allowed “Natural” labels on saltwater-pumped poultry since 2004, and estimates that some 25 percent of all ready-to-cook poultry products are “enhanced” with added saltwater solutions. In December 2014, USDA finalized a rule that will require improved labeling of enhanced products but the agency still allows them to carry the “Natural” label.

To view the full TLC study, click here.

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