Where To Buy Meat? Free range?

Anoneemoose

Morning all,

I have stopped buying chicken because I find it tasteless and boring and generally quite chewy (admittedly this could be the way I cook it ). Anyway, I have often wondered whether it is best to buy 'free range' or organic and if so, does it taste better? And do these labels actually mean a better product.

We have a very well rated butchers nearby but they are expensive in comparison to supermarket stuff but. I am wondering if it mighy be worth buying 'quality' and spending a bit more but making it go further for example?

I have tried googling about this but I am confused by all the info out there! I would be grateful for any opinions.

Many thanks.

Anoneemoose

Anyone please?

FairyPrincessk

I'm sure some find that free range organic chicken does have an improved flavor, but for the problem you're talking about I think that the cut and preparation is likely to matter more. Dark meat, bone in, skin on chicken is likely to be more tender and have a much richer flavor that white mean boneless skinless. Over-cooked chicken, particularly the boneless skinless white meat portions often taken on a rubbery texture. I know I personally will often over-cook chicken because I err on the side of caution. If you think this might be the case, it might be worth it to invest in a meat thermometer and experiment with different cuts.

As for if the free range and/or organic labels actually mean a better product...I'm just going to back away carefully from that can of worms. :rotfl: I think it is a matter of personal opinion right now (although in future there may be ample evidence one way or another), and I think the amount that the label tells you varies by the body issuing the label. I will say I don't think the labels tell me nearly as much as I'd like to know, and that I think it is important to look at the options out there and think carefully about what is important to you, within your budget, dietary and personal needs.

alymac1975

Hi there, you should always get a better quality of product from your butcher when compared with a supermarket. It may seem that it's more expensive to shop with your butcher but that's not always the case, always check the price per kg and you'll find that the two aren't that far apart. Your butcher should also be very approachable and take the time to discuss all things meat with you in order for you to make an informed decision on what to buy, whether that be free range or not etc. Lastly, a good butcher may even also offer discounts for bulk buying for the freezer which is worth considering and can sometimes save quite a bit of money.

A butcher that i know once said that " the bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low prices is forgotten "

Just my 2p worth but i hope it helps

Farway

Personally I only buy free range chicken from an ethical viewpoint, but I find it is not pumped full of water for a start

If there is a Lidl near you, try one of their free range birds

Anoneemoose

Thank you for the replies. I think I am going to give the butchers a go. It is supposed to be good quality and the reviews are good. Don't think it is free range or anything but I don't think it will be filled with water like supermarket stuff.

I am a bit awkward because I can't abide fat or gristle which is why I opt for 'safe' cuts of meat. I appreciate however that this means they won't be the tastiest!