Online users chimed in with various theories, with some suggesting that the chicken might be 3D printed or grown in a lab. Others attributed it to genetic modification or the use of growth hormones in chicken production to achieve larger breasts, resulting in unusual textures like “woody breast” or “spaghetti meat.”

While the phenomenon might not pose health risks to consumers, concerns were raised about the welfare of the chickens raised in the industry, which breeds them to grow larger at faster rates. The demand for white meat has driven this shift, with consumers preferring products like chicken nuggets and sandwiches.

Some online commenters expressed disgust over the stringy chicken, prompting discussions about alternative sources of meat, such as locally sourced and humanely raised options. Others considered adopting vegetarian or vegan diets in response to concerns about factory farming practices and animal welfare.