Rotisserie chicken is a favorite among American households, thanks to its convenience and affordability. According to the National Chicken Council, Americans consumed around 1 billion rotisserie chickens in 2021 alone. Walmart, in particular, has become a popular stop for these ready-to-eat birds because of its low prices. However, beneath the convenience lies a number of concerns about health, sourcing, and animal welfare.

The biggest issue comes from Walmart’s sourcing practices. To keep costs low, the company relies heavily on industrial farming operations. These facilities prioritize speed and efficiency over humane treatment, crowding chickens into cramped, unsanitary spaces. To keep disease at bay, producers often administer large amounts of antibiotics, a practice that not only affects meat quality but also fuels the global problem of antibiotic resistance, a growing threat to public health.

Health concerns don’t stop there. Walmart’s rotisserie chickens are also known for their high sodium content. Salt is added to enhance flavor and preserve freshness, but excessive sodium intake is linked to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems. For consumers who pick up rotisserie chicken regularly, the risks can quietly build over time.

Not all rotisserie chickens are created equal, though. Other retailers have made efforts to offer higher-quality options. Costco’s rotisserie chickens are often praised for their taste and generally lower sodium levels compared to Walmart’s. Meanwhile, Whole Foods markets chickens raised without antibiotics or added hormones, setting a higher standard for both health and animal welfare.

Regional grocery chains like Publix and Wegmans also stand out for their more responsible sourcing practices. Their birds are typically raised under stricter guidelines, offering consumers peace of mind about both quality and ethics. These alternatives show that convenience doesn’t have to come at the cost of health or humane farming practices.

For busy families, rotisserie chicken will likely remain a weeknight staple. But where you buy it matters. Choosing retailers committed to higher standards—whether it’s Whole Foods, Publix, or Wegmans—means supporting better farming practices while making a healthier choice for the dinner table.