What are the characteristics of a fresh poultry?

Here are some characteristics of fresh poultry that indicate it's of good quality:

Visual Characteristics:

* Color: The skin should have a natural, slightly yellowish hue. Avoid poultry with a grayish or greenish tint, which may indicate spoilage.

* Texture: The skin should be firm and smooth. Avoid poultry with a slimy or sticky texture.

* Appearance: The meat should be well-trimmed and free of bruises, cuts, or punctures.

Smell Characteristics:

* Fresh poultry should have a mild, pleasant odor. It should not have a strong, ammonia-like smell, which indicates spoilage.

Other Characteristics:

* Packaging: The poultry should be packaged in a clean, sealed container that is free of punctures or tears.

* Refrigeration: Fresh poultry should be kept refrigerated at 40°F or below.

* Expiration date: Always check the expiration date on the packaging.

Specific to Whole Chickens:

* Breastbone: The breastbone (keel bone) should be flexible. If it's brittle, the chicken may be old.

* Wingtips: The wingtips should be firm and not easily detached.

Important Notes:

* Avoid touching raw poultry with your hands. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling raw poultry.

* Sanitize your kitchen surfaces and utensils after handling raw poultry.

* Don't wash raw poultry. Washing raw poultry can spread bacteria around your kitchen.

By looking for these characteristics, you can increase your chances of buying fresh, high-quality poultry.