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Ink-Black Chicken: India's Nutrient-Rich Superfood
1 Aug
Summary
- Kadaknath meat is nearly pure lean muscle with high protein and minimal fat.
- It boasts significantly lower cholesterol and higher iron than regular chicken.
- The unique bird is tough, organically raised, and costly due to slow growth.
Kadaknath, an indigenous chicken breed native to Madhya Pradesh, is emerging as a sought-after food item in India due to its unique characteristics and health benefits. Its distinctive black pigmentation, a result of fibromelanosis, extends to its meat, skin, and bones.
Nutritionally, Kadaknath meat is lauded for being exceptionally lean, packed with around 25% protein and less than 2% fat. It contains significantly lower cholesterol and higher iron content than conventional chicken, making it a preferred choice for fitness enthusiasts and those mindful of cardiovascular health.
The breed is also valued for its rich, earthy flavor and dense texture, attributed to its free-range lifestyle. Traditionally, it was used in tribal communities for medicinal purposes due to its iron and antioxidant content.
Kadaknath birds are notably hardy, tolerating extreme temperatures and possessing natural disease resistance. Raised organically through free-range foraging, they are free from growth hormones. Their slow maturation, taking five to six months to reach market weight, contributes to their scarcity and higher price point.
