How can I tell if my raw meat has been pre-brined/injected?

I've heard that some grocery store meats (whole turkeys, ribs, etc) are sold pre-brined so as to avoid toughness. Of course in a lot of situations you'd want to start fresh and brine or inject the meat yourself.

In the US, is there any way to know based on labeling if the meat has anything added to it? Should it be on the ingredients list?

Seems like they can get away with injecting water without labeling it but I'm not sure about salt/seasoning. In particular I'm wondering about Farmer John ribs.

Best Answer

I always thought that the pre-brined meats are sold as being enhanced, usually followed with a percentage and what they are "enhanced" with.

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How do I know if my chicken is pre brined?

Check the label on the package of chicken. If it says anything about a sodium solution. It has more than likely been brined already.

How do I know if my turkey is pre brined?

If you see a label that has ingredients other than turkey, your bird may be pre-brined. If you brine a pre-brined turkey, you will end up with a very salty Thanksgiving centerpiece.

What does it mean when a turkey is pre brined?

A process in which a whole turkey is soaked in a salt and water solution for a period of time for the purpose of moistening the meat and enhancing the flavor. The brining process breaks down and extracts some of the proteins from the meat, which allows liquid to be absorbed into the turkey.

Are Kroger turkeys pre brined?

No - brining works best on birds that have had no liquid or salt added yet, or they will turn out too salty or mushy. Most grocery store turkeys have been injected with seasonings, sodium solutions or water - check the label. Even Kosher turkeys have been salted already as part of their preparation.

Should You Inject Or Brine Your Thanksgiving Turkey

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