Where to Buy Bulk Chicken

Buying chicken in bulk can be a great way to save money and always have delicious poultry on hand. However, finding the right source for quality bulk chicken can take some research. This article provides tips on the best places to buy bulk chicken online and locally.

Online Bulk Chicken Retailers

Purchasing bulk chicken online offers convenience and competitive pricing. Here are some top online sources for buying chicken in bulk:

Direct from Farms

• A lot of chicken farms, like Sunrise Farm and Perdue Farms, sell large cuts of chicken directly on their websites. You can buy fresh chicken from family farms at wholesale prices this way. Whole chickens, boneless breasts, wings, thighs, and drumsticks are common cuts that you can get. Organic and free range options are also available. Pack sizes range from 10-15 pounds.

• When you buy directly from farms, you can support small businesses, be sure of where your food comes from, and save money by buying in bulk. Check with each farm to find out how much shipping costs and where they deliver.

Specialty Meat Markets

• Online butcher shops like Bringhurst Meats sell many kinds of chicken cuts by the case. Products are shipped fresh or frozen. When you shop at specialty markets, you can look at different kinds of chicken, like organic, free-range, and conventional, all in one place.

• When you compare prices from different sellers, don’t forget to include shipping costs. Some companies offer discounted shipping on large orders. Read customer reviews to help evaluate quality.

Big Box Stores

• Major retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, and Walmart sell household-size packs of chicken through their websites. While per-pound prices may be higher than direct farm purchases, these sites let you buy groceries and chicken together.

• Opt for store pickup when possible to avoid delivery fees. Check club stores for availability of bulk packs to non-members.

Local Bulk Chicken Suppliers

Purchasing chicken in bulk from local businesses has advantages like lower costs, buying meat in-person, and supporting community vendors. Here are some places to buy bulk chicken locally:

Butcher Shops and Meat Markets

• Traditional butcher shops and meat markets are great sources for fresh, high-quality chicken in bulk. Many offer discounts when buying case packs versus individual retail packs. You can hand select exactly what you want.

• Ask if they can source kosher, organic, free range, or other specialty chicken. Lead times for specialty orders may be longer. Provide as much advance notice as possible for large bulk orders.

Farmers Markets

• Look for poultry vendors and farmers selling chicken at local markets. Ask when they expect to have bulk chicken available and pricing. Pick up your order on market days.

• Buying local farms allows you to connect with the source. Check if farmers offer additional cuts like necks, feet, and organ meats.

Ethnic Grocery Stores

• Latino carnicerias, Asian markets, halal grocers, and other ethnic stores are great places to find chicken in bulk. Shop their fresh meat counters or freezer sections.

• These stores may carry chicken types and cuts not found at regular chains. Explore different flavors and preparations.

Warehouse Clubs

• Warehouse stores like Costco and Sam’s Club offer household-size value packs of chicken breast, thighs, wings, and other cuts. You don’t need a membership to shop at the food courts.

• Compare prices between warehouse stores. Look for occasional manager markdowns on approaching sell-by dates for extra savings.

Buying Considerations

Keep these tips in mind when buying bulk chicken:

• Buy from reputable suppliers with high standards for freshness and food safety. Check sourcing, processing, and handling practices.

• Understand grade labeling like organic, free range, and air chilled which impact taste and pricing.

• Estimate expected usage and freezer space before purchasing. Buy multiple small packs if needed to avoid waste.

• Look for bulk discounted pricing but also consider per pound rates between packages. Larger packs are not always cheaper.

• Inspect packaging dates and meat quality when selecting bulk chicken. Opt for frozen when buying more than you’ll use within a few days.

• Ask about custom cutting, portioning, and packaging services to get chicken cuts ready to cook or freeze.

• Request information on safe handling, thawing, and storage when buying bulk chicken.

With proper planning, buying fresh chicken in bulk quantities can save you money on an essential protein your family enjoys. Support small businesses while keeping your freezer stocked using these tips for finding quality bulk chicken locally or online.