Moy Park adds ‘no need to wash’ sticker to own-brand whole chickens

Poultry integrator Moy Park has added a “no need to wash” sticker to all its own-brand whole birds in a bid to improve food safety.

Consumers washing chicken is considered to be a main cause of campylobacter poisoning, as water can splash bacteria from the carcass on to surrounding work surfaces.

Despite this, a recent survey found 44% of consumers would always wash chicken before cooking it.

See also Consumers urged not to wash raw poultry

The Food Standards Agency used Food Safety Week this year to drive home the message that chicken only needs to be cooked thoroughly to be safe, and Moy Park said its new stickers supported this.

“The aim of this label is to provide a clear message to consumers that raw chicken does not need to be washed in the home,” said Ursula Lavery, technical director for Moy Park. She added the sticker campaign would be accompanied by a video and leaflets highlighting the message.

Moy Park whole birds are stocked across Ireland, with the brand having almost 50% penetration in the Irish marketplace.