Chlorinated chicken: Is it safe and will it be sold in British supermarkets?
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Is the UK really ready to eat chlorinated chicken?
- Chlorinated Chicken, treated with chlorine dioxide to kill bacteria, is at the center of UK-US trade discussions.
- While the chlorine wash itself isn't deemed harmful in small amounts, concerns exist about potential impacts from high chlorate levels and the possibility of it masking poor hygiene practices earlier in production.
- Studies show US Chicken often contains harmful bacteria, and food poisoning rates are higher in the US than the UK. Research also suggests chlorine washing may not eliminate pathogens entirely.
- The EU banned chlorinated Chicken in 1997 due to concerns about lower hygiene standards. Currently, UK labeling laws don't require disclosure of chlorine treatment.
- Despite public opposition, the possibility of chlorinated Chicken entering the UK market through a trade deal remains a concern, although previous prime ministers have ruled out compromises on this issue.