Researchers are exploring the potential of farming large pythons, such as Burmese and reticulated pythons, for human consumption. The rapid growth rates of snakes, efficient food and protein conversion ratios, resilience to long-term fasting, and lower greenhouse gas emissions, make them a sustainable alternative to traditional livestock.
Thousands of pythons are being raised in central Thailand, and around 4,000 farms are operating in China and Vietnam, producing millions of snakes primarily for their skins, which are sold to high-end European fashion houses and used in luxury items like handbags and shoes due to the unique patterns, durability, and value of python leather.
Some experts believe that the true value of pythons could lie in their meat, which is described as "pretty tasty and versatile" and has been consumed by various Asian communities for ages. Using snakes as food offers environmental benefits such as minimal land and freshwater use, potential pest control, and a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional livestock farming.
Demand for meat is increasing globally, particularly in low-income and Asian countries. Driven by economic growth in developing countries, meat consumption is projected to rise by 14% by 2032, straining resources and sustainability.
Cultural perceptions and hesitation towards snake consumption, especially in Western cultures, pose a challenge to python farming becoming mainstream, despite its potential benefits for sustainable food sources and advocacy for plant-based diets to address the climate impact of traditional meat production.
Python farming also faces challenges such as strict processing standards, and criticism from animal welfare organizations like PETA, which accused a Thai farm of cruelty. Despite its nutritional value, low saturated fats, chicken-like texture, and more efficient feed-to-meat ratio than poultry, beef, and even crickets, marketing of python meat is also expected to be a challenge in many markets.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: Outdoors, India Today, Head Topics, Daily Sabah, Victoria Advocate.