A Comprehensive Review of Farmers Choice Sausages and Meat Products in Kenya

Farmers Choice is undeniably the leading meat processor in Kenya, surpassing competitors such as Kenchic and the state-operated Kenya Meat Commission (KMC). Although Farmers Choice boasts over 200 products, including pet food and specialty items, most consumers are primarily familiar with about 10 of their offerings. This review focuses on some of the most popular and widely consumed meat products from Farmers Choice.

Farmers Choice Products:

  1. Smokies
  2. Sausages
  3. Chipolatas
  4. Bacon
  5. Brawn
  6. Meatballs
  7. Salami
  8. Chicken Capon
  9. Burger Patties
  10. Beef Mince
  11. Nyamabite
  12. Chicken Bites
  13. Danish Hotdogs

Detailed Product Review

1. Smokies

Smokies are by far the most popular product from Farmers Choice and a staple of Kenyan street food. Their affordability makes them a hit, being significantly cheaper than regular sausages but, arguably, just as tasty. Farmers Choice smokies are made entirely of beef and are available in packs of 10 or 22. Their superior quality sets them apart from imitations.

2. Sausages

Farmers Choice sausages are exceptional, especially their beef and pork varieties. While their chicken and lamb options are less impressive, the beef and pork sausages stand out in terms of flavor and quality.

3. Chipolatas

A chipolata is essentially a smaller version of a dinner sausage. While similar to regular sausages, chipolatas have a distinct taste that may not appeal to everyone.

4. Bacon

Kevin Gillespie shows you how to cook bacon the Wright Way™

Farmers Choice bacon was once highly regarded, but a shift from strips to round, flat chunks has affected its cooking quality. Despite retaining the same taste, the bacon now tends to curl up when cooked on one side. The company offers streaky, collar, and back bacon, including rindless options. Collar bacon is the most affordable and popular, while streaky bacon, favored for its extra fat, is ideal for burgers. Back bacon is a good alternative for those who find streaky bacon too fatty.

5. Brawn

Brawn is made from the head meat of animals like sheep, pigs, and cows, making it one of the most economical choices at Farmers Choice. It is typically eaten cold or at room temperature and requires no cooking. Beef brawn is generally considered the best, followed by pork, while chicken brawn is less favored.

6. Meatballs

Meatballs consist of minced meat combined with breadcrumbs and spices. Farmers Choice meatballs are pre-made and ready to cook. However, some may find their processed taste off-putting.

7. Salami

Salami is a cured meat that is dried and sliced into small discs. Its flavor is enhanced by garlic, making it a great addition to salads and sandwiches.

8. Chicken Capon

The Farmers Choice whole chicken is considered lower in quality compared to other options like Kenchic due to its high fat content, with some parts containing more fat than meat.

9. Burger Patties

Similar to the meatballs, Farmers Choice burger patties suffer from a heavily processed flavor that can detract from the overall burger experience. Making your own patties from fresh minced meat is often a better alternative.

10. Beef Mince

Farmers Choice offers both frozen and fresh mincemeat. Opting for fresh mince is advisable, as the frozen version tends to be tougher, less juicy, and ultimately less satisfying, despite being cheaper.

11. Nyamabite

Nyamabite stands out as a particularly favored Kenyan snack, even preferred over smokies by some. Its dense texture and rich flavor, derived primarily from beef with added fillers and thickeners, make it a filling and enjoyable option.

12. Chicken Bites

Chicken bites are similar to Nyamabite but are made from chicken. These mini sausages are ready-to-eat and offer a convenient snack option.

13. Danish Hotdogs

Danish hotdogs are a popular variation. These hotdogs are typically boiled but can be cooked according to preference.

14. Boerewors

These are traditional South African sausages commonly used in Kenyan hotdogs.

Kevin Gillespie shows you how to cook bacon the Wright Way™

Even popular options like Quickmart hotdogs often feature boerewors, which is made from 100% beef with added mutton fat.

Farmers Choice Product Overview

ProductDescriptionKey Features
SmokiesAll-beef smoked sausagesAffordable, popular street food
SausagesVarious flavors including beef, pork, chicken, and lambBeef and pork are highly recommended
BaconStreaky, collar, and back bacon optionsCollar bacon is most affordable, streaky is fattier
Beef MinceAvailable fresh and frozenFresh is recommended for better quality
NyamabiteReady-to-eat beef snackDense texture, rich beef flavor

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tags: #Kenya