Why do people across the world mostly only eat a few of the same types of meat (like chicken, beef, pork) when there are thousands of other animals to choose from?

Question

Why do people across the world mostly only eat a few of the same types of meat (like chicken, beef, pork) when there are thousands of other animals to choose from?

In: 667

Answer 1

A couple things, I think.

Some animals were especially well suited to be domesticated, historically. They were fairly docile, widespread, provided numerous things other than just meat (milk, hide, etc), could be easily reproduced, multiplied in abundance, could handle disparate climates, and tasted good.

There’s also a very real feeling that some animals are off limits as food sources/beasts of burden and others are fair game. That tends to differ amongst cultures. I mean, don’t argue with a Hindu about beef any time soon or any westerner about how dog probably tastes like chicken. But, there is a real dividing line issue.