- Leak-proof packaging is the best option. However, all supermarkets, butchers and other retail outlets selling raw poultry should have plastic bags, hand sanitisers, tissues, and rubbish bins (for the disposal of contaminated tissues).
- If you're concerned about a retail outlet's food safety, complain to the management or contact your local council's public-health unit.
- When shopping, keep raw poultry separate from other foods
- If a chicken pack is dripping put it into a separate plastic bag and make sure it doesn't contaminate other foods in your trolley. Be careful not to contaminate your hands with raw chicken juices.
- Take chilled and frozen foods home as quickly as possible. Never leave them sitting in the heat of the car or on the bench at home.
- Cook chicken thoroughly. Use a meat thermometer and make sure it reaches a high enough temperature. Whole chicken should reach a temperature of 82°C, breast meat 77°C, minced and reheated poultry 74°C.
More information
- New Zealand Food Safety Authority: www.nzfsa.govt.nz
- Poultry Industry Association of New Zealand: www.pianz.org.nz
More from consumer.org.nz
Report by Belinda Allan
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $28
Previous: What's the problem?
