Pigeon meat can meet demand of protein

 
The meat of pigeon can meet the demand of protein as the meat is full of high protein content, but low in fat and cholesterol.

Among the poultry, the characteristics of the pigeon are different. The scientific name of pigeon is Columba livia, which originates in Europe, North Africa and Asia. Since ancient times, the pigeon has been unmatched as a bird of family nourishment, prosperity and decoration.

Pigeon is reared as a carrier of message or pet bird but is now reared commercially. Pigeon farming requires less capital and less risk. It is easier to rear it and more profitable than other poultry. There are about 120 species of pigeons in the world. Of them, there are approximately 20 species of pigeon in Bangladesh.

The bird does not need extra space to rear. It can be reared in courtyards, rooftops, verandas and balconies. As no additional workers are required, work can be done at leisure time.

Pigeon meat is delicious and it is used as medicine for patients. People of all professions including students, poor women can rear pigeons because it is easy to foster them. By fostering pigeons, family nutrition can be ensured; unemployment can be eliminated; extra income and poverty can be alleviated through self-employment.

 Although pigeon is small in size, the amount of protein in pigeon meat is 17.5 grams per 100 grams, which is close to beef (18.8 grams per 100 grams). The protein contained in pigeon meat plays an important role in the intellectual devel-opment of children and in fulfilling the non-nutritive needs of adults. It even contains more essential nutrients than chicken.

With an aim of inventing more advanced technology and accessible rearing methods for this promising poultry species, the Poultry Research Center of Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute has been conducting research on 6 breeds of pigeons such as King, Mayurpankhi, Homer, Giribaz, Siraji and Golla under the ongoing project titled 'Strengthening of Poultry Research and Development'.

Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute Chief Scientific Officer Dr Md Sazedul Karim Sarker is working as the project director and Scientific Officer Nushrat Nowrin Lisa is working as associate researcher in the project.

While talking to Chief Scientific Officer Dr Md Sazedul Karim Sarker, he said, "Pigeon meat has high mineral content. Among the various minerals is selenium, which protects our body from free radicals, increases thyroid function, reduces the risk of rheumatoid arthritis, reduces muscle pain, prevents skin and hair discoloration."

Even the risk of cancer and heart disease can be reduced by taking pigeon meat regularly, he said.
The chief scientific officer believes, the pigeon meat can meet the huge demand of protein in the country.

>>Nurey Alam, AA