DOMINICK'S ADDS SKINLESS CHICKEN

LAURA KLEPACKI

NORTHLAKE, Ill. -- Dominick's Finer Foods here has added a new line of fresh skinless chicken to its poultry case.

The product line, called Trim 'n Fit, is being promoted as all natural and minimally processed. The skinless items include: boneless breast and thigh combo, drumsticks, boneless breast tenders, boneless thighs, split breast (without the back portion) and boneless breast.

In a recent store circular, the retailer devoted a half-page to announce the new line.

"Today's trend toward thoughtful eating makes Dominick's New Trim 'n Fit chicken an all-around health food. It's lower in calories and fat and can be prepared in an endless variety of ways to appeal to all ages and tastes," the ad said.

It advertised the chicken at 30% off regular price, but did not list prices.

However, at one of the chain's Chicago stores, the regular price of the breast and thigh combo package was listed at $3.59 a pound, $1.99 a pound for the drumsticks and $2.79 a pound for the split breasts.

Dominick's could not be reached for comment. But in a press release announcing the line, Dominick's said Trim 'n Fit was introduced "in response to consumer interest in health and convenience."

According to the National Broiler Council, six out of out 10 Americans usually serve chicken with the skin removed, the company noted.