People around the world eat just about anything. Different places have different dietary practices because there is a lot of diversity in food. Turtles make for great pets but have you ever sat down to wonder if they are edible?
As far as snapping turtles are concerned, this turtle species have been verified as safe to eat. In essence, they do not cause a threat to you if you consume them. But the snapping turtle is also considered an endangered species in some states; therefore, eating it may not be legal in those states.
Let’s learn more about turtle meat before you order it for dinner next time you go out to eat.
What Does Turtle Meat Taste Like?
We know most of you would expect turtles to taste eccentric, but it might surprise you that turtle meat tastes much like chicken or beef. It can also taste a little like fish, but it is fattier in consistency. Some people say that it has the flavor of nine different types of meat combined.
Turtle meat is said to have high protein and is considered very nutritious.
What To Keep In Mind When Eating A Snapping Turtle
Is It Legal?
As mentioned above, the laws regarding turtle consumption vary from state to state. States like California prohibit individuals from consuming turtle meat.
Since the turtle species is slowly dwindling and animal rights organizations are working day and night to ensure their continued existence, hunting and eating a snapping turtle can get you in a legal mess. It may even result in a few years of imprisonment.
There May Be Health And Safety Concerns
Turtle meat is healthy and safe to eat. It also has a lot of essential nutrients. But it can have negative health impacts under certain circumstances and for certain people.
Turtle meat can carry toxins that are harmful to human beings. If not cooked properly, and if consumed in excessive amounts, people may suffer from food poisoning. Turtles also carry salmonella. So to ensure that you are not affected by any disease, you need to make sure that you clean and cook your food with care.
How To Cook A Snapping Turtle?
It is best to let your creative juices flow when it comes to cooking. Turtle meat can be fried, roasted, and even used to make a curry. The most popular way of eating a snapping turtle is by cooking it as snapping turtle soup.
Snapping turtle soup is a fan favorite and has been around for centuries.
Key Takeaways
In short, eating a snapping turtle is possible. It is also a delicacy that most people enjoy. You can safely consume a snapping turtle in various ways, provided it is legal in your state to do so.
Another factor that needs to be considered is practicing safe consumption and cooking it thoroughly. If all these things are kept in mind, we see no harm in eating snapping turtles. So bring out your forks and knives!
