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What is Edible Bird’s Nest?

The words “bird’s nest” should be familiar to most of you but did you know there are some types of bird’s nests that you can consume?

Yes, you can actually eat these nests. In fact, these bird’s nests are one of the most expensive animal products consumed by humans! In the market, a kilogram of white bird’s nest can go up to US$2,000, while a kilogram of red nests can fetch up to US$10,000.

You may be wondering, why are these bird’s nests so costly? Read on to understand why and learn some interesting facts about them that you may not know about!

How do Bird’s Nests form?

Bird’s nest, a natural wonder of the avian world, is a truly remarkable creation that has captivated human imagination for centuries. These feathered architects have been building their magical abodes for generations, and you won’t believe the astonishing materials they use. Picture twigs, leaves, feathers, and even their own saliva—weaving a cosy haven for their eggs and adorable offspring.

But wait, there’s more! Each bird species adds its artistic touch, resulting in an array of shapes and sizes that blend seamlessly with their surroundings. From hidden forest nooks to cliff-side marvels, these nests showcase the remarkable harmony between nature and its inhabitants.  As we delve deeper into the world of bird’s nests, we uncover not only a fascinating spectacle of design but also gain a greater appreciation for the extraordinary instincts and capabilities of the avian realm.

History of Bird’s Nest?

Looking back to nearly 1500 years ago, edible bird’s nests were originally known as the Swallow’s Nests, when they were first found during the Tang Dynasty in China. According to historical data, swallow nests were brought into China from Southeast Asian countries more than 500 years ago, where they were then presented to the Chinese Emperor. Since then, bird’s nests have been used by the Chinese royalty to maintain their beauty and health.

As one would expect, only the royal family and court officials had the luxury and privilege to consume these bird’s nests. Only after the age of Emperors ended, where the common people could have access to this delicacy. However, due to its rarity and health benefits, the demand and price of bird’s nests has remained high.

Where is Bird’s Nest produced?

Nestled in the most captivating corners of Southeast Asia, these nests are produced by the meticulous handiwork of swiftlets, tiny birds with an extraordinary gift for crafting their homes. From the lush rainforests of Indonesia to the pristine caves of Thailand and Malaysia, these remarkable birds scour the landscape for the finest materials to weave their nests.

Since these nests are found on high ground and deep in caves, nest farmers have to build scaffolding along the damp walls of these caves. Furthermore, their farming techniques have to be perfected in order to retrieve these nests without damaging them.

Difference between Cave Bird’s Nest and House Bird’s Nest

In the enchanting realm of edible bird’s nests, there exists a captivating face-off between two distinct contenders: the mysterious Cave Bird’s Nest and the urban dweller, the House Bird’s Nest.

First, let’s delve into the depths of nature’s sanctuaries, where the cave bird’s nest takes shape. Concealed within ancient limestone caverns, swiftlets intricately weave their nests using their very own saliva, resulting in delicate, translucent creations prized for their rich flavour and therapeutic properties.

On the other hand, we have the house bird’s nest, a testament to adaptability and resourcefulness. Amidst human settlements, swiftlets ingeniously construct nests using man-made structures.

As different groups of people debate the merits of each nest, the choice ultimately lies in the connoisseur’s palate and ethical considerations.

Different types of Bird’s Nests

Though all varieties of bird’s nests boast abundant nutritional benefits, they showcase distinct characteristics in terms of colour, origin, and texture. Furthermore, a diverse range of grade levels and shapes exists for these creations.

The Red Bird’s Nest, also known as the Blood Bird’s Nest, which features a captivating crimson hue. This is the most rare and expensive type of bird’s nest out of all. Scientists have recently proposed a fascinating hypothesis explaining the captivating red hue of the red bird’s nests, and it revolves around the dietary habits of the swallows. These agile birds, thriving in their Southeast Asian habitat, have a particular fondness for the lotus flower—a common plant adorned with round seeds boasting a deep red tint. As the swallows indulge in these seeds, the red pigment adheres to their mouths. When they return to their nests to craft their homes, this unique diet imparts a distinctive blood-like colour to their nests—a rarity seldom found in areas outside of Southeast Asia.

The Gold Bird’s Nest glimmers with its own allure, which is also highly demanded across the globe. Comprising around 10% of the global supply of bird nests, the gold bird’s nest holds the distinction of being the second most sought-after variety in the market. These nests get their gold hue from the swiftlets’ special diet, which cannot be recreated outside of Southeast Asia.

The elegant and pristine White Bird’s Nest showcases a translucent ivory appearance, and is the most commonly found bird’s nest in the market as they are more easily farmed. Interestingly, when soaked in water, white bird’s nests turn translucent, adding to their unique charm and allure. While white bird’s nests are readily available for purchase, they are in no way inferior in nutrition or quality compared to other bird nest types. Unlike their red and gold counterparts, white bird’s nests do not undergo the same transformations. 

Each nest type offers a unique culinary experience, making the exploration of their diverse attributes a true delight for enthusiasts seeking the finest in natural treasures.

Why choose Bonback’s Bird’s Nest?

At Bonback, we place paramount importance on the quality and authenticity of bird’s nests to ensure you enjoy their remarkable benefits to the fullest. Our commitment extends beyond your well-being; we also strive to uphold the highest standards for the environment. With us, you not only choose the finest health food products, but you also embrace a legacy of excellence, honesty, and reliability.

Rest assured that our bird’s nests come with numerous certifications, including Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), HALAL, Thailand Trust Mark, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), Lab Test, and Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Number. These certifications are a testament to our dedication to delivering only the best and most authentic bird’s nests.

By embracing bird’s nests of such high standards and certification, you can indulge in their exceptional health benefits with confidence and peace of mind. As you venture into the world of bird’s nests, let these standards and certifications be your guiding beacons, leading you to experience the purest essence of this natural treasure with us at Bonback.