Guinea Pig Peruvian Food

Guinea pig meat was an important part of the pre colonial diet in peru way before the europeans introduced chicken pigs and cows to south america and it has continued as a tradition.

Guinea pig peruvian food. Peruvian guinea pig diet. Guinea pigs are herbivorous animals which means that they only eat plant material in order to gain all of the nutrients that they need to survive. Instead they are a traditional and important source of protein in the andes where they are known as cuy pronounced coo ee named after the sound the animal makes. Peruvian guinea pig diet as with other animals this pet thrives best when it is provided with good peruvian guinea pig food.

The best options include timothy hay and pellets specially formulated for guinea pigs. A traditional food guinea pig called cuy in peru has been served whole on special occasions since inca times. Carbohydrates and fibres are the basis of their diet. As you might have guessed guinea pigs are not beloved pets in peru.

The diet for a peruvian guinea pig consists of 80 hay 15 fresh vegetables 5 pellets and some occasional treats. While it might seem unconventional to tuck into furry critters better known as domesticated pets in the west this indigenous mammal has been a staple. Remember that even dogs are eaten in many countries and guinea pigs have been a source of nutritious food for the inca for centuries. You must also add fresh fruits and vegetables occasionally because the pets themselves cannot produce their own vitamin c.

The significant nutrients including fiber and carbs come from the hay itself. Unlimited fresh timothy hay comprises 80 of its regular diet 1 2 cups of vegetables carrots cabbages leafy greens 1 8 1 6 cups of pellets a few pieces of apples and bananas as treats per day. If you could somewhat maintain this ratio then your guinea pig is never going to suffer due to diet at least. The peruvian guinea pig dish cuy is mostly served on special occasions rather than as a meal eaten regularly but is readily available for adventurous tourists to try in restaurants or at different food stalls.

This majestic looking guinea pig with long flowing hair is truly a unique breed of guinea pig and not your average household pet. The peruvian guinea pig is the ultimate ice breaker for friends and family coming over for dinner. The little furry rodent became a pet in europe and then the united states in the last couple of hundred years. Compared to the common american guinea pig the peruvian is almost like a unicorn cavy.

Guinea pig cuy is a delicacy that is very typically associated with typical peruvian cuisine but it is also eaten throughout other countries of south america such as ecuador colombia and bolivia. Cuy pronounced kwee which is guinea pig. They are unable to create their own vitamin c and so require the occasional supplement in their diet and stave off scurvy. Guinea pigs are cute and cuddly and eating one is like eating your pet dog.