Why Do People Wash Chicken and Should You Try It
Why do black people wash chicken? Hello, friends! Today, we're discussing a somewhat of a controversial kitchen topic - washing chicken. A lot of people swear by it, while others think it's unnecessary. So, why do black people wash chicken, and should you try it? Well, I have good news for you - washing chicken isn't just a matter of personal preference; it can actually benefit food safety and taste. So, let's dive in and explore this well-known topic!
History of chicken washing
In the black community, chicken washing has been a controversial topic in food safety for several years. According to some food experts, washing chicken with water can spread bacteria, including dangerous ones such as salmonella and campylobacter. This can lead to cross-contamination of other surfaces, utensils, and even other foods in the kitchen. So, really Why do black people wash chicken?
Growing up, my mom's common practice was washing her meat before cooking. I’m sure black people everywhere will agree on this raw chicken matter. Chicken juices aren’t a big deal to me if I clean the area properly afterward.
Also, washing chicken has been common in many cultures for centuries. In some countries, washing chicken with vinegar or lemon juice kills bacteria and removes dirt, blood, and other debris.
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Public Health Organizations
Let's talk about food safety education. In recent years, public health organizations, including the USDA and the CDC, have recommended washing chicken before cooking, especially for pregnant women. It's not a good idea. They suggest that instead of washing chicken, people should follow safe food handling practices, including washing hands, separating raw poultry from other foods, and cooking chicken to the correct temperature.
Despite the recommendations, some people still choose to wash their chicken before cooking, often due to cultural or personal beliefs. It is essential to take precautions and educate oneself on proper food handling practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Traditional practices
When it comes to washing chicken, different cultures and traditions have ways of handling this common kitchen practice. In some cultures, washing packages of chicken is crucial to cleanse the meat and remove potential bacteria.
For example, in Caribbean and African Americans cultures, washing chicken with vinegar and/or lemon juice is common to clean the meat before cooking the raw meat.
On the other hand, some cultures do not wash chicken at all, as it is believed that washing can spread bacteria and contaminate other surfaces.
Regardless of cultural practices, handling chicken safely and following proper food handling protocols is important to reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses says health professions.
Why Washing Chicken May Be Harmful
Washing chicken may seem like a good way to remove any bacteria or germs that might be lurking on the surface. However, in reality, washing chicken is not only unnecessary, but it can also be harmful. Here are a few reasons why:
1. Cross-contamination: When you wash raw chicken, any bacteria on the surface of the chicken can easily spread to your kitchen sink, countertops, and other surfaces through the splashing of water droplets. This can increase the risk of spreading harmful bacteria to other foods, utensils, and surfaces in your kitchen.
2. Ineffective at removing bacteria: Washing chicken does not remove all the bacteria on the surface of the chicken. While some bacteria may be washed away, others may become more deeply embedded, making it even harder to remove. Moreover, washing chicken with water does not kill the bacteria, and some of the bacteria can survive in signs of moisture.
3. Foodborne illness risk: Washing chicken can increase the risk of foodborne illness. Cross-contamination can spread bacteria such as Salmonella and Campylobacter around the kitchen, potentially contaminating other foods. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella is among the most common causes of foodborne illness in the United States.
4. Wastes water: Washing chicken requires additional water that could be conserved. With water scarcity being a growing concern, using water to wash chicken is not a wise use of resources.
Alternative Methods to Washing Chicken
Several other ways to clean chicken do not involve using soap or bleach. One of the most popular methods is immersing chicken in lemon water, which can help to remove any dirt, bacteria, or other particles that might be present on the chicken. Lemon water is simply a mixture of salt, vinegar, lemon, and water. They are safe and effective for cleaning the chicken.
Lemon Water
To prepare lemon water, mix about 1 tablespoon of table salt per quart of water, and one squeezed lemon and a teaspoon of vinegar. Make sure the salt dissolves completely in the water. Then, submerge the chicken in the water and let it soak for 20-30 minutes.
After the chicken is soaked, rinse it thoroughly with clean water and pat it dry with paper towels or a clean dish towel.
In Conclusion
Overall, immersing chicken in lemon water is a simple and the most effective way to clean it without harmful chemicals or additives.
Black folks love this method as well. Just make sure to handle the chicken carefully and cook it thoroughly to ensure that it is safe to eat.
My Thoughts
Should You Wash Chicken?
I have always chosen to quick rinse and thoroughly clean my chicken skin with cold water, rather if that's chicken breast, whole chickens, chicken drumettes, turkey necks, and any other meat. LOL.
The feathers and the guts are really unpleasant to cook. I will continue to do so in the future. Whether or not to wash chicken is entirely subjective and dependent on individual preferences. Also, some don't want to deal with raw juices, and I can completely under but as for me, I will continue the family tradition. Lastly, always remember to clean kitchen surfaces after rinsing chicken.
I hope you enjoyed this article about Why do black people wash chicken? Leave your thoughts below.
Here are some Southern recipes I believe you will enjoy
Pig Feet
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Well, until next time.
Last Updated on June 4, 2023 by Ronalyn Alston | Published: June 4, 2023
My stepdaughter told me washing chicken is bad. This article definitely made me feel proud to continue the tradition.
Nope its totally your preference.