Found out canned chicken at Dollar Tree has almost no water weight

I was looking at the label on a can of chicken breast at Dollar Tree last week and noticed the drained weight was listed separately from the total weight. Turns out they pack it with way less liquid than name brand cans I've bought at Walmart, so you get more actual meat for your dollar. Has anyone else compared the drained weights on other dollar store canned meats?

2 comments

2 Comments

river_jones1d ago

Actually that drained weight vs total weight thing isn't exactly the same as having less water. Most canned chicken has broth or water added for processing and texture, not just to cheat you. The real trick is comparing the protein per ounce after draining - some name brands actually have higher protein content even with more liquid because they use better cuts. I've tested a few cans before and Dollar Tree's chicken tends to be more shredded and dry, while the pricier stuff holds together better.

cameron_palmer1d ago

I actually kind of disagree on the protein per ounce thing. I've drained both side by side before and Dollar Tree's chicken came out to like 13g protein per serving after draining, same as the name brand stuff I checked at home. Maybe it's just me but I actually prefer the more shredded texture for things like chicken salad or casseroles since it blends in easier. All that extra liquid in name brand cans feels like I'm paying for broth I'm just going to pour down the sink anyway.

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