Five unethical foods available in Hong Kong
The notorious shark fin soup is not the only food being served in the city which gives cause for concern
Snake wine
Considered to have health benefits in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this alcoholic beverage is believed to have originated in China during the Western Zhou dynasty. It is made by pushing a live or dead venomous snake into a bottle of rice wine or another strong alcohol. Traders often use the most endangered species, such as cobras because their poison, which dissolves in the liquor, is believed to be vital for the wine’s invigorating effects. Many countries have banned the importing of snake wine because it generally contains endangered species. But in Hong Kong it is still possible to buy snake wine from some traditional shops.
Snake soup
Like snake wine, snake soup is believed to have medicinal benefits in TCM. It generally includes two types of snake, plus chrysanthemum leaves and spices. Popular species to include are the water snake or python, but the Chinese cobra and Banded krait are also sometimes utilised. Wildlife campaigners have said the practice of making snake soup is cruel and unnecessary, because they are sometimes kept in inhumane conditions in snake farms in mainland China before being skinned alive. The dish is considered to be a Cantonese delicacy but has reportedly become less popular in recent years, particularly with young people as Hongkongers increasingly question whether the practice is ethical.
Turtle jelly
