Waitrose has announced that it will introduce the UK's first chicken that is a source of Omega 3s, polyunsaturated fatty acids which, as a key part of a balanced diet, help to maintain normal heart and brain function.
Research undertaken in 2013 showed that people with the highest levels of Omega 3 had a 40 per cent reduction in cardiovascular related deaths compared to people with the lowest levels. Optimum health benefits are obtained from a daily intake of 250mg of Omega 3 fatty acids as part of a healthy balanced diet and lifestyle.
Despite leading authorities recommending regular consumption of foods containing Omega 3, research suggests that only 23 per cent of the UK's adult population consumes the recommended intake, generally classified as at least one portion of oily fish per week. Intake levels are particularly low in children and young people.
The new Omega 3 chicken, which is unique to Waitrose, is produced by Moy Park on family farms in Northern Ireland. The chicken is enriched by feeding the birds on a diet containing an algae - the family of aquatic plants that includes kelp and seaweed - naturally rich in Omega 3. The taste and appearance of the chicken is the same as birds fed on a conventional diet.
Initial trials have demonstrated that people eating enriched chicken for just five weeks have increased levels of Omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and see measurable effects on their cardiovascular health.
Market round-up
United Auctions sold 167 store heifers at Stirling on Wednesday to a top of 254.8p per kg and an average of 223.5p (+5.6p on the week), while 171 store, beef-bred bullocks peaked at 292p and levelled at 232.7p (+5.3p). Fifty store, B&W bullocks sold to 177.2p and averaged 148.9p (+1.8p).
In the rough ring 149 beef cows averaged 128.2p and 9 dairy cows levelled at 89.2p.
C&D Auction Marts Ltd had no prime cattle forward in Dumfries on Wednesday, but there were 56 OTM cattle presented in the rough ring when beef cows averaged 119.6p and dairy cows levelled at 91.3p.
The firm also sold 291 prime lambs to a top of £88 per head and 205p per kg to average 193.3p (no change).
The 166 cast sheep forward saw heavy ewes sell to £114.50 for Texels and average £67.35 (-£2.69), while light ewes peaked at £58 for Blackfaces and levelled at £45.58 (-£5.97).
Messrs Craig Wilson Ltd sold 331 prime lambs in Newton Stewart on Wednesday to a top of £82 and 182p to average 173.3p (-25.8p).
There were also 280 cast sheep when hoggs peaked at £64 for Cheviots and ewes sold to £88.50 for TexelXs and £56.50 for Blackfaces.
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