SIMILARITY BETWEEN CROCODILE MEAT AND CHICKEN

Food vendors and consumers have been hard hit by the escalating prices of chicken, eggs, and pork in particular, the latter has doubled in price since last year. It’s a situation that calls for some innovative ideas, and owners of crocodile farms have risen to the occasion by promoting the reptile’s meat as a cheaper alternative.

While a croc might be unappetizing to some, the health authorities are reassuring, saying it’s fine for people to consume the meat when it’s handled and cooked properly. Indeed, gourmets will tell you cuts from the tail and fillet as well as the penis are tasty.

A?good source of?protein that is?low in calories and fat

Dr. Suwannachai Wattanayingcharoenchai, chief of the Department of Health, says crocodile meat can be an alternative protein source when pork is expensive but advises people to remain vigilant when handling and cooking.

“Eating the meat raw or undercooked would not be safe,” he says.

He explains that most reptiles including crocodiles carry salmonella, a bacteria found in their guts. Crocodile meat can become contaminated with bacteria during processing.

The bacterial infection in people, he adds, can cause illness including severe food poisoning, typhoid, diarrhea and abdominal pain.

To avoid cross-contamination, Dr. Suwannachai advises washing the hands and utensils before processing the meat and thoroughly cooking it before consumption.