Manor Farm Becomes First Irish Producer to Launch Omega 3 Irish Chicken
Manor Farm, which is the largest chicken processor in the Republic of Ireland, and Tesco Ireland have launched the first Omega 3 Irish chicken. The 100% Irish chicken is fed on a diet that includes Omega 3 rich algae and has the same great taste of Irish chicken. The launch of Omega 3 Irish chicken into the market in Tesco Ireland stores nationwide follows a significant period of research by Manor Farm’s innovation team.
“Most of us don’t get enough Omega 3 in our diets. People tend to think of oily fish when they think of Omega 3 and yet we know from SafeFood that one in three adults in Ireland don’t eat fish while chicken accounts for one third of the nation’s meat consumption according to Bord Bia,” says Professor Patrick Wall, UCD Institute of Food and Health.
Registered dietician Aveen Bannon of the Dublin Nutrition Centre explains: “Omega-3 fatty acids are described as an essential fat which means they are needed for good health but the body can’t make them. Therefore we must get them from our diets. Omega -3 fats are important at all stages of life as they form a vital part of all of the cells that make up our body.”
Together with a balanced diet, Omega 3 plays an important role in maintaining heart health, brain function and vision. The new Omega 3 Irish chicken can provide adults and children throughout Ireland with a new source of this vital nutrient.
“We are designed to consume food not supplements. When you consume Omega 3 naturally in a food you absorb much more than when you take capsules,” adds Professor Wall.
Recent Manor Farm research reveals that the biggest motivation for eating healthily is to stay healthy and to feel better physically.
“Our research tells us that half of all adults in Ireland take regular exercise and eat a balanced diet. That of course means the other half don’t,” points out Vincent Carton, Managing Director of Manor Farm. “People already consume fortified foods and drinks that include milk with added vitamins and foods like cereals and eggs with added nutrients. Our unique Omega 3 Irish chicken is now another way to enjoy a popular, staple food with added nutrients.”
Sheila Gallagher, Commercial Director at Tesco Ireland, comments: “We are delighted to be the first retailer to bring own label Omega 3 enriched products to the Irish market. Working in partnership with Manor Farm on this range of Tesco Omega 3 enriched chicken products allows us to continue to lead the way in providing healthier options for customers in response to their lifestyle and dietary needs. At Tesco, we’re committed to working with our suppliers to continue to bring exciting innovations to our customers.”
The new range of Omega 3 enriched chicken products are now available in Tesco Ireland stores. The launch range includes 1.5 kg whole chicken, fillets and oyster thigh and drumstick products.
