Mechanically Separated Chicken

Mechanically separated chicken is a paste-like poultry product made by forcing chicken bones with attached edible tissue through a sieve under high pressure. This process separates the remaining meat, along with some bone particles, marrow, and connective tissue, from the bone.

Manufacturers use mechanically separated chicken to increase the yield from poultry carcasses, making products more cost-effective. It serves as a protein source and filler, commonly found in processed meat products like hot dogs, sausages, and bologna.

In the US, the FDA regulates mechanically separated poultry, requiring it to be labeled specifically as "mechanically separated chicken" and not as "chicken" alone. It is generally considered safe for consumption when produced and handled according to regulations. Historically, concerns regarding bone fragments and bacterial contamination led to stricter processing standards and calcium content limits. As a whole food product, it is not typically evaluated by JECFA or EFSA in the same way as food additives.