There is mounting evidence that organic chicken may be more nutritionally dense than non-organic chicken.

• Chicken is naturally rich in Omega-3s, however, chickens may have a higher proportion of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly when the birds are fed a diet rich in organic grains and seeds. Omega-3 fatty acids are a crucial part of our diet and regular consumption can decrease the risk of heart disease and reduce inflammation.

• Organic chicken has been found to contain more key nutrients and minerals with higher levels of vitamins E and A found in organic bred birds. These two vitamins are an important part of overall immune function and have skin-boosting benefits.

• In the UK, US and various other countries, organic meat, including organic chicken is prohibited from routine antibiotic use as well as the addition of synthetic hormones throughout the animal’s life. Such hormones are used a lot in conventionally raised chickens to promote faster growth and to prevent disease.

• Organic chickens are generally raised in more humane conditions, especially in the UK, with stricter standards to adhere to. For example, organic-raised chickens are often pasture-raised and provided with more space to roam. To hold organic certification, chicken farmers must allow access to the outdoors where the animals can engage in natural behaviours such as pecking, grazing and scratching. Organic chickens are typically housed in a smaller, more sustainable environment which offers superior living conditions to those raised in the confinement of battery hen housing.

• Sustainability: Organic farming practices emphasize sustainability, including crop rotation, reduced soil degradation, and the preservation of biodiversity. Organic farms tend to have less pollution of waterways from runoff, as they avoid synthetic chemicals.
• Lower Carbon Footprint: While organic farming can sometimes have a higher per-acre yield than conventional methods, it often uses less energy-intensive practices and avoids synthetic fertilizers, leading to a smaller carbon footprint in some cases.

• Many consumers report that organic chicken has a more intense flavour and firmer texture when compared to conventionally raised chicken. One reason for this perceived superior taste could be due to the organic chickens’ more varied and higher-quality diet. Organic chickens are not given chemical additives such as sodium and phosphates, which are often used to retain moisture and improve the texture of conventional chicken. This can result in a more natural taste and texture. There may be somewhat of a placebo effect when a consumer is aware a chicken was raised without antibiotics and synthetic hormones and the perception of the taste of the meat is subsequently preferred.