Warning - Off Topic Rant!
Log story short - I have crazy allergies that force me to read labels.
Until this year I have never had a problem trusting a turkey label that said "All Natural - Minimally Processed." Then I glanced at a Butterball label and was astonished at what they are getting away with. Then I saw it wasn't just them.
Now, I've known for years not to buy certain brands because I react to their "Natural Flavoring," but at least I was able to trust a label that said "Minimally Processed."
Now I see turkeys that are being injected with seasonings and "Natural Flavor" which can contain Monosodium and/or other L-glutamates, "to enhance the tenderness and juiciness."
Then the label states... "Minimally Processed." ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?!?!?!
According to USDA Guidelines minimally processed is suppose to mean it "...was processed in a manner that does not fundamentally alter the product."
And "Bone-in poultry products that are injected or marinated with a solution containing butter or other edible fat, broth, stock or water plus spices, flavor enhancers and other approved substances must be labeled as basted or self basted."
The USDA updated their labeling guidelines in April, 2011. I guess processors are finding more loopholes to squeeze through to try and fool consumers into thinking their product is a "healthier" choice.
So anyway, this year the wife and I really had to watch the turkey labeling like hawks.
Anyone else notice this or have an issue with these labeling practices? They tick me off!