Controversial cuisine: A global account of the demand, supply and acceptance of "unconventional" and "exotic" meats

Abstract

In most societies, meat is more highly prized, yet more frequently tabooed, than any other food. The reasons for these taboos are complex and their origins have been the focus of considerable research. In this paper, we illustrate this complexity by deliberating on several "unconventional" or "exotic" animals that are eaten around the world, but whose consumption evokes strong emotions, controversy and even national discourse: dogs, equids, kangaroos, marine mammals, primates, rodents and reptiles. We take a systematic approach, reflecting on the historical and current demand for the meat, the manner in which this demand is met, and how individual and societal attitudes towards these species shape their approval as food. What emerges from this synthesis is that conflicting views on the aforementioned species exist not only between Western societies and elsewhere, but also in nations where these animals are readily consumed. Moreover, such taboos are seldom based on functionalist explanations alone, but rather have overwhelming symbolic and psychological groundings.

Keywords: Aversion; Meat; Proscription; Religion; Taboo; Traditional belief.