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Rabbits are known to be cute, fluffy, and are often regarded as domestic pets. But, did you know they're also quite a popular alternative source for protein?

While many consider the big three -- chicken, pork, and beef -- as main sources of the popular macronutrient, the Philippine government and agriculture authorities are considering rabbit as a substitute for pork. The country's pork supply continues to dwindle due to the coronavirus pandemic.

As prices of pork meat continue to rise, this gives suppliers a chance to promote rabbit meat in the commercial market.

According to dietician Jake Brandon Andal to Pinoy MD, there are many benefits to eating rabbit meat. It is low in calories but high in protein and other vitamins such as B12 and Omega-3.

“Magiging maganda itong source ng pagkain para sa mga taong gustong magpapayat o concerned sa number of calories dahil nga mas mababa ang taglay niyang taba,” he said.

“Ibig sabihin nito mas mababa rin ang taglay nitong calories. So maganda po itong choice sa patients na may sakit sa puso o mga nagpapababa ng cholesterol.”

Jake added, “In terms of cleanliness, ang mga rabbit ang kinakain lamang nito ay mga damo at iba't ibang feeds na mataas sa vitamins kaya sinasabi namin na talagang lean ang protina ng rabbit meat.

“I-appreciate natin 'yung initiatives na pag-diversify ng source of protein dahil ngayong panahon ng pandemya na bumababa ang ating food security or access ng ating mga kababayan dahil sa epekto ng pandemya sa ating trabaho at sa access to food.”

So how much does rabbit meat cost? To tell you the truth, it doesn't come cheap.

Rabbit farm owner Solomon Felizardo explained, “Meron po tayong dalawang klase, depende po sa order.

“May iba po gusto na gusto dressed or katay na po at malinis na, na lulutuin na lang, mayroon po non. Meron din po 'yung kakatayin pa lang.

“'Yun pong patay na, ang bentahan po sa market P450 per kilo. Pero 'pag buhay P150 to P200 per kilo.”

Learn more about rabbit meat in this Pinoy MD special:

For more articles on health and wellness, make sure to check GMA Network's Lifestyle Page.