More retailers offer free-range meat amid rising demand for healthier food

But expert says meat from conventionally raised animals not unhealthy by default

- Koh Ming Lun

Free-range chicken meat at FairPrice Finest. FairPrice Group currently offers more than 40 free-range products, including eggs, pork and chicken, in its stores and online.

(ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN)

When Mr Ryan Lye was 92kg and obese, he decided to overhaul his diet to improve his health. Instead of eating out regularly, he cooked his own meals using free-range and organic meat and produce. He also started to exercise more regularly.

Three years on, the 40-year-old consultant said he has lost 20kg and is no longer obese. He is mentally more alert, and his energy levels and blood work have also significantly improved.

Although free-range and organic food is priced at a premium, Mr Lye feels that the health benefits are worth the additional cost.

"Although I seem to be paying more for the dollar, in terms of actual nutritional value, I am getting more bang for my buck," he said.

Mr Lye is not alone. According to some retailers and at least one supermarket chain, more Singaporeans are buying organic and free-range meat. Free-range meat generally refers to meat from animals that are not continuously confined in enclosures and are instead given more freedom to roam around and access the outdoors.

Mr Joe Stevens, chief executive of gourmet supermarket Little Farms, said his customer base has evolved over the years from expatriates and Singaporeans who had previously lived overseas to more local Singaporeans, especially the younger and more health-conscious ones.

Today, 75 per cent of his patrons are Singaporeans, up from 60 per cent in 2023.

Likewise, Ms Amy Bell, founder of online grocer The Meat Club, said expats made up around 85 per cent of her customer base when she first started in 2015. Today, around half of her patrons are locals.