Broiler chicken has become a regular part of the diet in most households in the country. Because it is easy to find and relatively cheap, it is popular among ordinary people. However, rumors and widely held beliefs in the market have left many worried about its safety.
According to physician Dr Shahanaz, broiler chicken is not in itself an unhealthy food. Rather, it is an important source of high-quality protein, as well as vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and various minerals essential for the body. Its safety, however, depends on how it is raised on the farm, whether antibiotic-use rules are followed, and whether hygiene is maintained during slaughter and storage.
She said antibiotics are used on many farms to prevent or treat disease. But if they are overused without following prescribed guidelines, or if the required withdrawal period before slaughter is not observed, drug residues can remain in the meat. In the long term, this may increase the risk of antimicrobial resistance, meaning the spread of antibiotic-resistant germs.
Another widespread belief about broiler chicken is that hormones are used to make it grow faster. But there is no strong scientific evidence to support this claim. Broilers grow quickly today because of improved breed selection, balanced feed and modern farm management.
She added that if proper hygiene is not followed on the farm, or if there is carelessness during slaughter, transport, and storage, harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter may be present in the meat. This is why chicken must always be thoroughly boiled or cooked before eating.
Experts say properly produced broiler chicken is an excellent source of lean protein. It also contains important nutrients such as vitamin B12, vitamin B6, niacin (vitamin B3), phosphorus, selenium and zinc, which play key roles in the body's normal functioning.
Eating skinless broiler chicken regularly in moderate amounts can be part of a healthy diet. Both local (deshi) chicken and broiler chicken provide good-quality protein. Although deshi chicken differs in taste and texture, there is no major difference in nutritional value. What matters more, she said, is the quality of the chicken, safe production, and hygienic cooking.
Health experts have offered several tips for eating broiler chicken safely. They say chicken should be bought from trusted shops or approved farms. Meat with a foul smell or unusual color should be avoided. Raw and cooked meat should be stored separately, and the meat should be cooked thoroughly before it is eaten.
In the experts' view, broiler chicken that is produced according to proper rules, stored safely, and cooked well is a safe and nutritious food for ordinary people. Rather than being misled by misconceptions or rumors, buying chicken consciously from trusted sources and following hygiene rules is the safest and most sensible choice.