Guinea pigs are popular pets in the U.S., but in parts of South America, they’re a delicacy. Some environmental and humanitarian groups are making a real push to encourage guinea pig farming as an eco-friendly alternative to beef.

Seth Dixon, Ph.D.‘s insight:

First off, my apologies if you find the image distressing (I have two guinea pigs in my house and I will not be showing this picture to my children). However, the fact that many readers might find this image disturbing but wouldn’t think twice about the sight of chicken grilling on the barbeque highlights the cultural taboos surrounding what we consider appropriate food sources.  The tradition has diffused to the United States as more South American immigrants have come to the United States.  While the meat is more environmentally sustainable (less resources are required per pound than beef), many potential costumers are leery to eat something that they consider a pet.

Tags: food, diffusion, sustainability.

See on www.npr.org