Roasted versus Rotisserie Chicken
Tuscan Roasted Chicken is a healthier option compared to store bought rotisserie chicken. This recipe is free from the sodium phosphate, carrageenan, modified food starch and excess sodium typically added to store bought rotisserie chicken. Costco sells on average 60 million rotisserie chickens per year. I have developed many different types of processed chicken products including rotisserie marinated chicken in the past. The goal in mind is always to increase yield. The heavier per pound the chicken is raw or cooked with retained water the higher the yield and the more profit to the supplier. You are paying for the added water rather than chicken. To help accomplish this modified food starch, carrageenan and sodium phosphate are added.
Carrageenan is an additive used to increase water retention, thicken, emulsify, and preserve foods and drinks. According to Scientific America carrageenan is a chemically processed red seaweed (Irish moss) that has been linked to colitis, IBS, rheumatoid arthritis and even colon cancer. In 2016 the National Organic Standards Board voted to remove carrageenan from their approved list and, therefore is no longer approved to be on a USDA Organic label.
Sodium phosphate is an additive used to help retain moisture (added water) in rotisserie chicken, lunch meats, bacon and even raw meats. It is used in processed foods and fast food to help retain moisture, stabilize, thicken and preserve food products. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes sodium phosphate as safe for consumption in small amounts. When developing products with sodium phosphate I cannot add more than < .05% of the total weight of the product. So, what happens when you eat multiple food items with added sodium phosphate? There is accumulating evidence suggesting sodium phosphate may increase risk of kidney disease, bone loss, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic health conditions.
Modified food starch was always my go to for increased yield and moisture in a food product. Modified food starch is a product made by taking a starch like corn, wheat, rice, tapioca or potato and chemically, physically or enzymatically treating it. It is a very complex product that will help products retain moisture (added water) and thicken foods. Check the labels as it is added to many fresh meats, poultry, soups, sauces, dressings, frozen foods and yoghurt. It is recommended that you limit your intake of modified food starch as it is a highly processed ingredient.
I am a believer of moderation in everything. I am not saying to never eat rotisserie chicken, but merely want to educate everyone on what may be perceived as healthy is not necessarily. Try Tuscan Roasted chicken and I think you will be happy with the clean Mediterranean way of eating.