By Raúl Rodríguez Cota
Roasted chicken is one of the most popular products in supermarkets due to its practicality and affordable price. However, food safety experts warn that not all grab-and-go chicken is a good choice, and there are clear signs that can indicate a risk.
The most important sign: dirty packaging
According to food hygiene specialist Be aware McShane, the condition of the packaging is key to determining whether the product is safe.
The expert warns: “If there is residue scattered on the top or excess of the container or if it shows signs of excessive contact, then I question how well it was handled.”
Dirty packaging may indicate that the chicken was handled by multiple people, was left out of proper conditions for too long, or even was dropped before being put back on display.
How long can it be on display?
Time is also a determining ingredient. In some chains like Costco, rotisserie chickens are removed from display every two hours, as after that period the quality begins to deteriorate.
Products above that limit are often reused in refrigerated prepared foods, such as salads or casseroles, ensuring customers receive fresh chicken in constant rotation.
In general, other supermarkets prepare new batches every two to four hours, especially during high-demand times such as lunch or dinner time.
Another alert: the lack of time label
An easy way to check freshness is to check the label with the cooking time. If the chicken does not have this information seen, it could be a warning sign about its handling or age.
What to do if there is no safe option
If you can’t find a chicken that looks good and is packaged clean, the recommendation is to ask the deli area when the next freshly prepared batch will come out.
And if there is no availability, choosing to buy raw chicken and cook it at home can be a safer alternativesince a whole chicken usually cooks in about an hour in the oven.
Keep reading:
– Costco sued for its $4.99 rotisserie chicken
– The change in SNAP that would allow you to buy hot roast chicken and improve your purchasing power
– When Costco restocks your shelves: The best days and times to find products