Chlorinated chicken: The controversial product in recent UK-US trade talks

• Chlorinated chicken, which is washed or dipped in water and chlorine dioxide to kill bacteria, is at the centre of UK-US trade deal discussions.
• While the chlorine wash itself isn't deemed harmful in small amounts, concerns exist about potential impacts of long term exposure to chlorate and the possibility of it masking poor hygiene practices earlier in production.
• Research suggests chlorine washing may make pathogens undetectable, instead of eliminating them.
• The EU and UK banned the practice due to concerns about lower hygiene standards and animal welfare. Clear labelling of chlorinated chicken is a key issue, but current UK regulations don't require it.
• Public opinion in the UK strongly opposes allowing imports of chlorinated chicken, and previous prime ministers ruled out concessions on this issue in trade negotiations.

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