Chicken nuggets

Chicken nuggets are a processed food product consisting of small pieces of chicken meat, often formed into shapes. The chicken is typically coated in batter or breadcrumbs and then fried or baked. They are a popular convenience food, often found in the frozen food aisle of supermarkets.

Chicken nuggets are primarily used as a convenient and palatable protein source, especially for children. The coating provides a crispy texture and can also act as a binder for the formed chicken. They are commonly found in ready meals, fast food offerings, and as a frozen product for home cooking.

Chicken nuggets are not a food additive and therefore do not have an E-number or require authorisation on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. Their health implications are primarily related to their nutritional content, which can be high in fat and salt depending on the preparation method and coating. The UK's High Fat, Salt and Sugar (HFSS) regulations aim to restrict the promotion and placement of such foods in retail environments. Evidence on the health effects of processed meats generally suggests moderation is advisable as part of a balanced diet.