Cornish Cross meat birds

[cjpines]

We just butchered 9 Cornish birds. We were told to keep them in the refrigerator for 3 days before freezing. Does anyone know why or if this is something we should do?

 

[Coralietg]

You need to allow time for rigor mortis to pass out of the muscle tissue. The last one I froze was in the fridge for 48 hours, it seemed good and loose before I put it in the freezer.

 

[cjpines]

Oh, I now understand the reason for refrigerating meat birds first. Thank you, I'll pass this on to my husband.

 

[SmokinChick]

I cool mine off on ice immediately after processing. Then after their core temperature is cold! I package in shrink bags and freeze. Never had any complaints about toughness.
I have let birds rest for three days after processing, and the frozen the same day ones are just as tender.
Lets face facts, putting a bunch of birds in your fridge may not be feasible.
Good luck and enjoy!

 

[cjpines]

Quite a critter family you have. Thank you for the info on pre and post Cornish preparation. My husband said it's a crappy job. Maybe we will find a processor locally next time.