A Silkie chicken may look white on the outside, but its skin and bones are jet black. Photo / Christine Cornege
A Silkie chicken may look white on the outside, but its skin and bones are jet black. Photo / Christine Cornege
One of Australia's main breeders is having trouble selling his chickens says Chris Russell.
The Country's Australian correspondent told Jamie Mackay about Angus Shepherd, who breeds chickens with high quality meat and a deep rich taste.
There's just one problem said Russell.
"When they come out of the oven theylook as though they're burnt".
Shepherd has been breeding black-skinned chickens for 11 years, but still has trouble convincing Australian consumers to purchase his birds said Russell.
However, all is not lost, as Shepherd has found a discerning market for his unusual- looking chickens.
"They appeal to high-end restaurants because of the quality of their meat. It's a much deeper richer taste than standard chicken meat," said Russell.
Although black-skinned chicken is a popular Chinese dish, Australian consumers are still put off by its appearance. Photo / File
For now though, the "burnt" look of the bird is still putting Aussie consumers off, an effect which Russell attributes to conditioning.
"Isn't it funny how we're so influenced by what it looks like to the eye – we can't get past conventional ideas that a chicken needs to look nice and brown and roasted and gorgeous on the outside."
Also in today's interview: Russell talks about the cancer court case against Roundup and the upcoming Australian election.
