ACCEPTABILITY PATTERN OF RABBIT MEAT CONSUMPTION

ABSTRACT

This study was conducted in Benin City to ascertain the level of acceptability of rabbit meat as an alternative to conventional meat types consumed in the study area. The objectives of the study were to examine the social economic characteristics of the respondents in the study area, identify factors affecting their choices of meat, factors affecting the widespread acceptability of rabbit meat in the study area amongst others. Systematic sampling technique was used to select 3 local government areas in Edo state. A total of 150 structured questionnaires were administered to the respondents and their responses recorded. The results obtained confirms that respondents have good information about Rabbit meat (53% of the respondents). Of the number sampled about 39.8% have tasted Rabbit Meat and 32% agreed that Rabbit meat is unique in its taste and properties. The major reasons for the consumption of rabbit meat as reported by the respondents were that the taste of other ingredients compliments the rabbit meat of which 32.8% of the respondents strongly agreed to, the taste of rabbit meat is comparable to chicken, rabbit has a satisfying taste. Also 13.3% of the respondents agreed that they will buy rabbit meat as first choice. 31.3% agreed that rabbit meat is awesome and 23.4% of the respondents agreed that rabbit meat is large enough to feel full. The major challenge militating against the consumption of rabbit meat is its scarcity, 23.4% of the respondents agreed to this and its price 18.8% agreed to this. x It was concluded that the taste of rabbit meat is acceptable to respondents and thus there is a great potential to commercialize rabbit meat in Edo State. It is recommended that breeders of rabbit meat should continuously educate the public on rabbit meat consumption through advertisements on social media focusing on the different ways on how to cook the rabbit meat into different cuisines. They can also organize an annual event that will encourage people to try on rabbit meat. The need for consumer information especially on health benefits of rabbit meat is crucial in eradicating negative notions on eating rabbit meat.