Shoppers have been urged to check raw chicken products for a specific skin defect that indicates poor animal welfare. The issue, first highlighted in 2024, persists as a TikTok user recently brought attention to it in a food warehouse.
The Warning
Novo News, a TikTok account, posted a video showing a packet of raw chicken drumsticks. He pointed to brown marks near the ankle joint, explaining, "This chicken has hock burns. These are caused by the interaction of ammonia with the skin, burning the chicken legs and leaving marks."
Causes of Hock Burns
Novo noted that overcrowding leads to these burns. "Broiler chickens grow rapidly to several times their normal weight, kept in cramped, wet conditions where their waste mixes with their skin, causing burns," he said.
The issue was previously exposed in a 2024 BBC investigation, where several supermarkets were found selling chickens with such burns. In response, Andrew Opie of the British Retail Consortium stated at the time: "Our members take animal welfare seriously, expecting high standards from suppliers and continuously improving quality and welfare."
Prevalence in Supermarkets
Novo claimed that a third of supermarket chickens are affected, with some stores like Co-op and Lidl having rates over 70% based on independent checks. TikTok users reacted strongly: one said, "This is why I can't eat meat," while another noted, "I stopped eating chicken 8 years ago." A third advised knowing your supplier, and a user suggested buying organic free-range to avoid the issue.
Supermarket Responses
A Co-op spokesperson said: "Animal welfare is extremely important. Our chicken is 100% British, Red Tractor standard, and bred at lower stocking densities, reducing hock markings." Lidl GB added: "We support improving poultry welfare. We monitor hock health, and our suppliers outperform industry benchmarks. All fresh chicken complies with Red Tractor and RSPCA Assured standards, and our free-range RSPCA Assured chicken meets the Better Chicken Commitment."
