What does white foam mean when frying poultry meat? We explain

White foam when frying poultry meat can raise our doubts. Should we worry about the quality of chicken or turkey meat? We will explain where this phenomenon comes from and how to make sure that the poultry is fresh. Read further before you start frying poultry meat for lunch or dinner.

Chicken is one of the most popular types of meat in Slovakia – approximately 900 million of these birds are used annually. It gets on our plates in various forms: cooked, baked or fried. It is during the last heat treatment that we often observe the white foam in the pan. What does this mean when frying poultry meat?

Where does white foam come from frying?

The formation of foam is the result of the process of protein denaturation. The high temperature changes the protein structure in the meat and in combination with moisture produces characteristic foam. A similar phenomenon occurs when cooking broth when the so -called foam appears on the surface. This process is completely natural and should not raise concerns. White foam appears regardless of the type of breeding – in the case of both industrially and environmentally friendly meat.

Myths about antibiotics and hormones in meat

It often believes that white foam is a sign of the presence of antibiotics or hormones in chicken. In fact, poultry breeding in the European Union is strictly controlled and strictly regulated to ensure consumer safety. The use of growth hormones is prohibited and antibiotics can only be used for treatment purposes under veterinary supervision of the occurrence of foam during frying does not mean that the meat contains harmful substances. It is a natural physico-chemical phenomenon, which is the result of the thermal treatment of proteins.

How do you know fresh chicken?

To be sure of freshness of meat, you need to pay attention to several important factors. Fresh meat should have a pink color, a solid structure and a soft, neutral aroma. If the meat is gray, sticky to the touch or gives an unpleasant odor, it may mean that it spoils. In that case, it is best to refrain from consuming itto avoid the risk of food poisoning.