What is a poussin and how old is it when slaughtered?

A poussin is defined as a young chicken, specifically one that is less than 28 days old at the time of slaughter, and it typically weighs about one to two pounds. The correct age range for a poussin at slaughter is generally between 25 to 38 days, which aligns with the provided choice. This youthful stage in the chicken’s development is what gives poussin its tender texture and delicate flavor, making it a sought-after ingredient in various culinary applications.

Other options describe different categories of chickens. For instance, a baby chicken slaughtered at 15-20 days old would refer to a different stage altogether and not meet the typical definition for a poussin, which is generally older. Mature chickens that are over six months old would not be classified as poussin, as they would be considered fully grown and have developed a different texture and flavor profile. Similarly, a chicken that is fully grown at eight weeks would not qualify as a poussin either; it falls short of the age and size parameters defined for this specific young chicken.