Village Chicken Claims Do Not Meet Organic Standards

October 30, 2026 · GıdaTarım

Experts emphasize that organic production in the poultry sector is bound by strict regulatory standards, urging official certification against claims of unregulated village chickens.

Standards in Organic Poultry Farming

The fundamental difference between organic and conventional chicken lies in the animal's rearing conditions, feeding regimen, and the stringent control processes within the production chain. The organic production model in the poultry sector is meticulously tied to specific regulatory standards, from the animals' housing conditions to the protection of their health. In this process, animal welfare and controlled feed usage are prioritized, while the rearing period differs from conventional systems, directly affecting the structure of the meat tissue.

Nutritional Value and Health Criteria

The Turkish Nutrition Guide (TÜBER 2022), published by the T.R. Ministry of Health, positions chicken meat among the primary protein sources. The National Food Composition Database (TÜRKOMP) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry indicates the richness of chicken meat in protein, fat, B group vitamins, and minerals like phosphorus and selenium. Chicken meat, which supports muscle mass maintenance and provides a feeling of fullness, stands out as an indispensable element of a balanced diet.

Importance of Certification and Misleading Claims

Not every chicken that roams in open areas or is stated to be free-ranging in a village environment falls under the organic classification according to legal regulations. For a product to be marketed as organic chicken, it must be audited and certified by authorized independent control and certification bodies. It is of great importance for food safety that consumers are aware of unregulated labeling claims such as 'natural' or 'village chicken' and choose registered and certified organic poultry production.

Türkçe