Organic chicken breasts provide lean protein, B vitamins, selenium and other nutrients without the additives, preservatives or antibiotics that traditionally raised poultry may contain. Under the National Organic Program established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or USDA, chicken breasts that are labeled "USDA Organic" must come from birds raised under the department's breeding requirements for organic livestock and poultry. Organic breast meat offers the nutritional value of chicken combined with the health benefits that come from raising poultry in clean, humane living conditions.
Organic Standards

Organic chicken breast meat may contain fewer toxins and contaminants than conventionally raised poultry. Chickens raised organically must have a diet of organic feed produced without pesticides, antibiotics, animal by-products, sewage sludge or arsenic-based drugs. Their living conditions must include access to an outdoor area. Because their living environment is more open and less congested, organically raised poultry may be less susceptible to disease, according to the Mayo Clinic.






Nutritional Content

Chicken breasts are low in calories, high in protein and very lean, with 142 calories, 27 g of protein and 3 g of fat in half of a roasted, skinless chicken breast. Organic chicken may be leaner than conventionally raised chicken because the birds are allowed access to the outdoors and may have a higher activity level. However, the Mayo Clinic suggests that the nutritional content of organic chicken may not be superior to that of conventionally raised chicken. All chicken breast meat is rich in protein, niacin, vitamin B-6 and selenium. Niacin and vitamin B-6 contribute to healthy circulation, blood production and neurological function. Selenium is a trace mineral that supports immunity, promotes healthy thyroid function and may offer protection against cancer and heart disease.
Antibiotics and Parasiticides

Although the use of antibiotics, pesticides and parasiticides -- chemicals used to kill poultry parasites -- is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and USDA, many consumers have concerns about the effects of eating chicken treated with these substances. Organically raised poultry may receive vaccinations to prevent disease; however, they cannot receive antibiotics. The restriction against antibiotics among organic farmers may reduce the number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria that affect poultry and livestock. Exposure to pesticides in conventionally raised chicken may contribute to nervous system dysfunction or developmental delays in children, according to HelpGuide.org. The cumulative effects of pesticide exposure may cause immune system deficiencies and birth defects in the general population. To the best of their ability, organic farmers prevent poultry diseases and parasites through a clean, uncrowded living environment. The use of parasiticides is minimized.
Additives and Preservatives

If you have allergies to the preservatives used in conventionally raised poultry and meat, you may find organic chicken breast meat easier to tolerate. Standards for organic food production restrict the use of preservatives, added sweeteners, colors, flavorings and monosodium glutamate, or MSG. The lack of chemical additives may make organic chicken breasts not only healthier, but more flavorful, according to Organic.org. Because they are sold without added preservatives, organic chicken breasts may also be fresher than conventionally raised chickens when you purchase them.







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