Abstract
The aim of the present study was to characterize the chemical and quality traits of retail chicken meat in Spain. A total of 39 breast (Pectoralis major) samples were collected from large stores across three seasons in 2024 (13 samples per season). All samples were consistently sourced from the same 13 suppliers, that collectively account for more than 70% of Spain's broiler production. Based on retail label claims, samples were grouped as either 'non-certified' (no claims; 7 samples per season) or 'certified' (certified claims regarding distinctive dietary and slaughter age practices; 6 samples per season). Proximate composition, quality traits (pH, color, water-holding capacity, texture, oxidative stability), and the profiles of fatty acids (FAs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were analyzed. Meat from the certified group had a higher protein content (22.37% vs. 20.62%; p < 0.01) and lower thawing (3.22% vs. 6.59%; p < 0.001) and cooking losses (14.09% vs. 24.64%; p < 0.01). Certified meat was also darker (lower L*: 48.48 vs. 52.59; p < 0.05) and exhibited a more intense yellow color (higher b*: 18.66 vs. 4.22, hue angle: 87.63 vs. 66.59, and chroma: 18.71 vs. 4.62; all p < 0.001). The intramuscular fat of certified meat contained less monounsaturated FAs (34.72% vs. 40.32%; p < 0.001) and more polyunsaturated FAs (28.82% vs. 23.55%; p < 0.001). Eight of the thirteen nutritional indices derived from the FAs profile were more favorable in the certified group. A total of 171 VOCs were identified, with sulfur compounds being more abundant in certified meat (0.94% vs. 0.67%; p < 0.05). In conclusion, retail chicken meat grouped according to commercial labeling possesses a distinct chemical and quality profile.