Well, let me start by saying that I used to work in a chicken processing plant, so I have some firsthand knowledge about how nuggets are made. It’s not the most glamorous job, but it definitely gives you a unique perspective.
So, here’s how it goes. The process of making nuggets typically starts with whole chickens. These chickens are brought in from farms and are already slaughtered and cleaned. They are then sent down the line to be cut up and deboned.
Now, this cutting and deboning process is usually done on a mechanized assembly line. The chickens are fed into the line, and there are workers stationed at various points to perform specific cuts. These workers are often highly skilled and can perform their cuts with precision and speed.
Once the chickens are cut up and deboned, the meat is then mechanically separated. This means that the meat, bones, and other parts are separated using machines. This is where things start to get a bit more interesting.
The separated meat is then ground up into a paste-like consistency. This is done to ensure that the nuggets have a uniform texture. The ground meat is then forced under high pressure through screens. These screens have small holes that help reduce the meat even further, creating a smoother paste.
At this point, the meat paste is ready to be shaped into nuggets. It is typically mixed with other ingredients such as breading, seasonings, and binders to enhance the flavor and texture. The mixture is then formed into the familiar nugget shape using molds or extrusion machines.
Once the nuggets are formed, they are usually breaded and then sent off for frying or baking. This is done to give them that crispy outer coating that we all love. After they are cooked, they are typically frozen and packaged for distribution.
Now, I must admit that the process I described may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer. Different companies may have their own specific methods and ingredients. But overall, this is the basic process of how nuggets are made.
I hope this gives you a better understanding of how nuggets are really made. It’s definitely a fascinating process, albeit not the most appetizing to think about. But hey, that’s the reality of the food industry.