Does Commercial Chicken Have Less Nutrition?

Is your chicken nutritious enough?

Not all chicken is created equal when it comes to nutrition.

Studies have found that slower-growing chicken breeds often have higher protein content and better fat composition than fast-growing commercial broilers. For instance, one analysis highlights that slower-growing birds tend to have higher protein percentages, more favorable polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) profiles, and higher vitamin E levels—especially when reared with outdoor access—versus fast-growing breeds. [CompassInsight Food Business report (2022)]

Additionally, research into poultry nutrition shows that adjusting feed to include more omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids can enhance the health benefits of the meat, improving immunity, bone strength, and meat quality. [MDPI review (2019)]

So while two pieces of chicken may look the same, their nutritional depth can vary greatly depending on growth speed and diet—sometimes significantly affecting how beneficial they are to your health.