Thailand is the 8^th largest producer of chicken in the world and produces approximately 3 million tonnes of chicken meat each year. 60% is consumed domestically and the remaining 40% is exported. However, things have changed post-Covid-19. A slump in demand for chicken meat has been seen domestically resulting in a slash in cost too. On the other side, the demand from a few countries increased due to lockdown.

There are two ways in which this chicken farming is done – Conventionally and free-range farming. Mostly they are farmed in clusters. As time passes, consumer awareness has increased about what kind of chicken meat is good for them. ‘You Are What You Eat’. The more natural, toxic-free food you eat, the more nutrients you get from it! As per reports, it has been seen demand for free-range chicken breast has been more as compared to the conventional ones.

Free-range chickens are believed to have access to outer space, instead of just being put in cages. Outer space could be grassy pasture, any random piece of land of mud or gravel. It is better for both chickens and the consumers. Conventionally grown chickens don’t have much exposure to outer space and upon that they are fed with fortified grains, which in return is not that beneficial for consumers. In a study of 400 chickens in 280 days, free-range hens scored better than conventional hens. Let’s check out some factors which contribute to making free-range chicken breast a healthier option:

1- Rich source of Protein – Chicken meat is considered to be highly rich in protein, and breast is the leanest edible part. 85gms of roasted, skinless chicken breast provides 27 grams of protein and has close to just 128 calories and 0 carbohydrates. It is included in a weight loss high protein diet. The chicken breast of a free-range chicken supplies more than half of the body’s daily protein needs, with the least accompanying fat.

2- Excellent source of Vitamins and Minerals– Free-range chicken breast comparatively more of Vitamins B, D, A, Potassium, and Sodium, than the conventional ones. Possibly exposure to more sunlight and fresh air is the reason for the difference.

3- Doesn’t disrupt females hormones– Conventional chicken meat is believed to disrupt hormones leading to polycystic ovary syndrome in females. Also, a study proved having conventional meat affects one’s cholesterol levels. Free-range chicken meat is safe (or we can say should) to have to protect your body in many ways.

4- Better taste– Consumers find free-range chicken tastier than conventional chicken. Organic food always tastes better. Better diet, outdoor access and natural shelter given to free-range chicken contribute to making the meat juicier, tender, and better textured.

5- Fat-free meat– Conventional are subjected to artificial supplements and growth hormones. As a result, they have more fat in their muscles. But this fat isn’t good at all for consumers. Free-range chicken breasts are bigger and the meat is sumptuous, also because they get living conditions. Putting these animals in tight cages, short of spaces makes them grow but not healthy growth.

6- Free from harmful bacteria– As per a report by Consumer Reports in 2013, conventional chicken meat was tested to have harmful bacteria like Salmonella, Campylobacter, Staphylococcus aureus, and Enterococcus. These unnaturally big size chickens are toxic for consumer health because of regular antibiotics given.

Nutrition Facts

Here are some figures to show how much nutrition one gets from 112 gms of free-range chicken:

*DV – Daily value requirement

Restaurants are also seen boosting their dishes made from free-range chicken meat.

Free-range chicken meat can be bought from local farms or any farmer’s flea market, where one can get fresher meat. Plus due to awareness of organic and non-organic meat, stores prefer to keep organic and free-range chicken meat. In Wholesome Radiance foods stores of Bangkok, you can get a range of fully organic, free-range chicken breast and other chemical-free poultry items. We also get it delivered to your doorstep through our delivery partners hygienically. Freshness is assured whether you pick it from the store or go for online ordering, sitting back in your comfort zone! Check out the Wholesome Radiance foods website to find more of such healthier meat options for your healthy organic food shopping!