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QUAIL birds for some are mere birds mostly seen during the rainy season in the rural areas, but over the years they have become a money making venture thanks to their nutritionalA� value.
It is not just the birds but their eggs that draw so much attention.
In a survey done by this publication around Bulawayo, many people in the poultry rearing industry diversified to quail birds as the demand for their eggs surged.
A day-old quail bird fetches $1 and the eggs sell for a $1 per dozen. Already, they provide a cheaper option to chicken eggs that sell for around $2 per dozen.
A fully developed bird sells for $6 which is slightly less than what a grown chicken bird costs.
a�?When I first heard about quail eggs it was at a bar. Men were saying these eggs improve sexual stamina.
a�?It was sometime in January and by then they were going for $10 a dozen, but because of a bigger market they are selling for $1 a dozen.
a�?It is still not a bad business because people buy them in large quantities and as a result I breed them,a�? said a quail breeder Amos Phiri.
Quail birds are sold when they are one day old and start laying eggs at five weeks. Their lifespan is an average of two years.
a�?If fed well and kept in a clean place, quail birds will lay an egg everyday for two years. This is great business and that is the reason many people are turning to it.A� One does not spend much money and the profits are great,a�? he said.
It is also said that despite the quail eggs having more health benefits as compared to chicken ones, the meat is more delicious.
A medical doctor who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed the birda��s special attributes.
a�?Quail eggs are highly nutritious in protein and calcium. They are believed to have protective elements that boost the body,a�? he said.
Quail eggs and meat are not only popular in Africa. According to British researchers the eggs are a�?super-fooda�?A� and have essential nutrients.
a�?Quail eggs have proven to be a very valuable source of vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12 and vitamin D, iron, magnesium, zinc, copper, phosphorus and other essential micro-nutrients, minerals and amino acids, which is why they are recommended for regular consumption.
a�?To eat quail eggs as part of a healthy diet it is recommended to consume them raw. A lot of people dona��t like the idea but to make the taste more pleasant you can mix it with orange or tomato juice. In order to strengthen the immune system and improve the blood quality a course of 60 eggs is recommended. Initially three, then five eggs a day should be consumed.
a�?Quail eggs are considered to be one of the best known natural treatment products. Chinese medical practitioners have been using quail eggs as treatment for hundreds of years with brilliant results. As quail eggs are slowly becoming an easy-to-get product on the market more and more people are beginning to show interest in their use as an active natural medicine instead of chemical products with so many side effects.a�?
It is claimed that quail eggs have positive effects on people with stress problems, hypertension, digestive disturbance, gastric ulcers, liver problems, lipid control, migraine, asthma, anaemia, various types of allergies, eczema, heart problems, bronchitis, depression, panic and anxiety illnesses.
Quail eggs are also known to stimulate growth, increase sexual appetite, stimulate brain functions which improves intelligence quotient and generally rejuvenates the body.
Online Reporter