Whether you’re surprised to learn about National Poultry Day or not, it’s a thing. And, it’s right around the corner! As a staple in nearly every diet, having access to fresh chicken is a must. Lucky for you, you’ve found D’Erricos Market! Known for the freshest, highest-quality cuts of meat, our team is excited about March 19^th.

So, in honor of National Poultry Day, we’re taking a moment to honor the chicken with a few fun facts.  You’re welcome.

Chicken is one of the oldest documented meats for consumption.

While research can only go back as far as the hieroglyph, there is evidence dating around 600BC that chicken was one of the most common meals during the middle ages. However, the further back in history you travel, the more variations you find – like junglefowl.

Did you say delicacy?

While chicken was once the most common meal during the middle ages, times changed. Changing from common to a dish made only for royalty, chicken was not so readily available. Not until the early 1900s did chicken once again become affordable and readily available to all classes of wealth.

However, chicken didn’t regain popularity in the United States until the World War II-era when a shortage of beef and pork forced people to look elsewhere.

Chicken wings were not a fan favorite.

Often, consumers tossed the wings out as they were considered inedible. Not until 1964 in Buffalo, New York, when a restaurant owner served them barbequed and called them ‘buffalo wings,’ did they become a hit.

Europe took a bit longer to follow path.

Not until the ‘mad cow disease’ of 1996 did European countries increase their consumption of chicken. Until then, beef was the meat of choice.

Vaccinations aren’t only for humans.

The United Kingdom successfully eliminated salmonella by vaccinating chickens.

Americans love chicken.

It’s estimated that Americans consume nearly 8 billion chicken, or 80 pounds per capita a year.

Chicken is the healthier option.

Compared to red meats, chicken contains nearly three times as much polyunsaturated fat (the good stuff). Besides being healthy, the chicken is extremely versatile. With several consumable parts, this meat is used in various dishes and cooked in thousands of different ways.

March 19^th is National Poultry Day. Where will you be? Most likely, you have no plans centered around chicken. We get it. But, we’re also inviting you to stop in and visit us here at D’Erricos Market for the best fresh chicken around! Baked, fried, grilled, or incorporated in your favorite dish – we can’t wait to see what you have cooking!