The reason Campbell's lists "mechanically separated chicken" among the ingredients of products like Spaghetti-Os is primarily due to regulatory requirements and transparency in labeling.
Mechanically separated chicken is a process where the remaining meat on chicken carcasses is mechanically removed by machines, often used to extract as much meat as possible from the bones. While it is still technically chicken, the mechanical separation process can result in a different consistency and texture compared to traditional cuts of chicken.
Regulatory Requirements: In many countries, including the United States, food labeling regulations require companies to accurately describe the ingredients used in their products. This includes providing specific names for ingredients, especially when there are significant differences in processing or composition.
Transparency in Labeling: Campbell's, like many other food manufacturers, aims to be transparent about the ingredients they use. By listing "mechanically separated chicken" as an ingredient, they are providing more detailed information about the type of chicken used in the product.
Texture and Consistency: The use of mechanically separated chicken in products like Spaghetti-Os may be a cost-effective way to incorporate chicken into the recipe while maintaining a consistent texture throughout the product.
It's worth noting that the labeling of ingredients can vary between brands and products. Some brands may simply list "chicken" without specifying whether it is mechanically separated or not. However, in the case of Campbell's Spaghetti-Os, they choose to specify the type of chicken used, likely to provide more transparency to consumers about the processing methods involved in the product's creation.