Bernard Matthews fans have noticed a number of items are 'missing' from supermarket shelves, with the food giant confirming they are making significant changes. Customers have questioned the disappearance of favourite turkey dinosaurs, unicorns, and drummers from freezers.
Switch from Turkey to Chicken
The Mirror can confirm that following a series of taste tests, consumers told Bernard Matthews they prefer chicken over turkey. Consequently, the Norfolk-based company will switch many products, including turkey drummers, dinosaurs, unicorns, and twizzlers, to chicken. Only the frozen Hamwich will remain unaffected.
Reasons Behind the Change
The firm is also concerned about turkey supply due to avian influenza in the UK, and using chicken offers sustainability benefits. A Bernard Matthews spokesperson said: 'Kids will still be able to play with their food with dinosaurs and unicorns still on the menu, but, through a series of taste tests consumers have told us they prefer chicken. As a result, we are updating the recipes while keeping the same shapes and overall look and feel customers love.'
Customer Reactions
One parent took to the R/ParentingUK Reddit community, saying: 'I've been unable to find Bernard Matthews Turkey Dinosaurs for a while now... I thought I'd email Bernard Matthews direct to get an answer. They didn't say why they are making this change, but looks safe to say it's a permanent change.' The Mirror understands the change will be kept under review, and the firm may reintroduce turkey at the right time.
Company Background
Bernard Matthews was founded in 1950 and operates over 50 farms across Norfolk, Suffolk, and Lincolnshire. The founder, known for his 'bootiful' catchphrase, died in 2010. The company was bought by Ranjit Singh Boparan in September 2016 for around £87.5 million, protecting 2,000 jobs.
