Waitrose has said all of its fresh Christmas turkeys will be British and free range this year, in what it describes as a first for a UK supermarket.
The retailer said the move would apply across its fresh festive turkey range and builds on its supply relationship with Traditional Norfolk Poultry (TNP), which produces birds for Waitrose on farms around the Norfolk and Suffolk border.
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TNP’s Waitrose turkeys have access to woodland and pasture, with land set aside specifically for the retailer’s birds to allow foraging and other natural behaviours.
Jake Pickering, head of agriculture at Waitrose, said: “To be the first UK supermarket to guarantee that every single fresh Christmas turkey is 100% British and free-range is a proud moment for us and sets a bold new welfare benchmark for the industry.
“Animal welfare is at the very core of how we source, and by rearing our turkeys to the highest free-range standards with dedicated woodland and pasture to thrive in, we’re supporting local farmers while guaranteeing exceptional welfare and flavour.”
Heritage breeds added to premium range
The change coincides with 500 years since the turkey was introduced to Britain in 1526.
Waitrose is adding two birds to its premium No.1 range, including an exclusive Bourbon Red heritage breed turkey.
The No.1 British Free Range Bourbon Red Heritage Breed Turkey will cost £110 for a 5kg bird serving 10. Waitrose said the slow-growing breed carries more fat than standard birds, helping the meat self-baste during cooking.
A No.1 British Free Range Traditionally Prepared Bronze Turkey will also be available at £120 for a 5kg bird serving 10. The bird is dry plucked and matured for at least seven days.
Joseph Langfield, turkey buyer at Waitrose, said: “We’re delighted to be offering our food lovers a traditional, slow-grown heritage bird – the Bourbon Red – a supermarket exclusive that represents the absolute pinnacle of poultry farming.
“This slow-grown, rare heritage breed matures naturally at its own pace while foraging freely outdoors. Raised to the highest animal welfare standards, these turkeys carry more fat than standard birds, allowing the meat to self-baste during cooking for an exceptionally tender, succulent breast.
“This extra fat layer gives the skin a distinct creamy-white finish for an eye-catching presentation, delivering an incredible depth of flavor that is a true celebration of British farming and ultimate Christmas taste.”
