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Would you try an ostrich burger? Some say it tastes just like beef
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Alpha-gal syndrome, a red meat allergy triggered by tick bites, is increasing in prevalence, causing symptoms like hives and digestive issues; it does not affect consumption of poultry, seafood, or ostrich meat.
- Ostrich meat, similar in taste and appearance to beef, is becoming a popular alternative for people with alpha-gal syndrome, leading to increased demand and expansion of ostrich farms such as Alpha Roost Farms in Kentucky.
- Ostrich meat commands high prices, with ground ostrich costing over $20 per pound and premium cuts over $40, attracting customers willing to travel for the product.
- The ostrich farming industry in the U.S. experienced a boom and bust in the 1990s due to misunderstanding the birds' needs, but current producers have improved practices and are expanding herds to meet growing demand.
- Brent Williams, a nutritionist and alpha-gal sufferer, found ostrich meat to be a satisfying substitute for beef, highlighting the allergy's impact and the potential of ostrich as a safe, enjoyable red meat alternative.
