Despite some turtle species facing severe threats of extinction, turtle eggs have gained popularity in traditional medicine, where they are attributed with numerous health benefits. This belief has led to the proliferation of shops selling these eggs, raising increasing concerns about the fate of these endangered creatures.
Characteristics and nutritional components of turtle eggs
Turtle eggs are characterised by their round, spherical shape with a soft, leathery white shell. Inside, the egg contains a yolk similar to that of chicken eggs, while the albumen has a jelly-like consistency.
Nutritionally, turtle eggs contain approximately 150 calories, 10 grams of protein, 12 grams of fat, 0.8 grams of carbohydrates, 70 grams of water, and 1.5 grams of ash. The yolk is rich in essential vitamins such as Vitamin E and B-complex vitamins, in addition to Vitamins A and D.
Benefits of turtle eggs: between traditional medicine and scientific research
The purported benefits of turtle eggs in traditional medicine can be summarised as their ability to boost immunity and increase fertility, as well as their use as a treatment for infertility.
Other sources have indicated that turtle eggs contain important vitamins and minerals. Vitamin E in the yolk is known for its role in improving skin health, while Vitamin A is essential for vision. Additionally, Vitamin D helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis in adults and rickets in children.
Furthermore, it is believed that the B vitamins present in turtle eggs positively affect overall bodily function, primarily the nervous system. The eggs also contain other beneficial substances that contribute to normalising cardiovascular system activity and improving hair, nail, and teeth health.
In terms of minerals, turtle eggs are a source of iron, which promotes blood formation and reduces the risk of blood clots. Magnesium, which improves heart muscle activity, is also present in this food, along with calcium, which strengthens bone tissues.
The latest scientific research has shown that turtle eggs may help combat the consequences of radiation sickness in individuals exposed to radiation due to cancer treatment, nuclear power plant accidents, or those who regularly receive associated radiation doses.
Health risks and warnings against consumption
Conversely, activists have criticized popular recipes that encourage the consumption of raw turtle eggs. They warn that this practice exposes consumers to the risk of acute food poisoning due to Salmonella bacteria. Moreover, turtle eggs contain mercury levels more than 40 times higher than recommended by the World Health Organisation, which can cause chronic neurological damage and acute kidney failure.
Activists also pointed out that regular consumption of raw eggs can cause osteoporosis and heart and blood problems due to the presence of heavy metals (cadmium and lead). Additionally, sea turtle eggs contain high levels of harmful cholesterol, which increases the risk of heart disease and strokes.
The threat of extinction and calls for protection
“The whole earth is not sold for a turtle egg” – an African proverb reflecting the intrinsic value of ecological balance.
On another front, the “Bado Environmental Association for the Protection of Marine and Terrestrial Life” issued an urgent appeal regarding the sale of eggs from endangered sea turtles. In its appeal, the association targeted the Ministry of Environment, the Municipal Guard, and regulatory bodies, expressing deep concern over a shop displaying and selling sea turtle eggs. This practice violates local and international laws prohibiting the trade of endangered species and contradicts cherished ethical and environmental values.
The association affirmed that these practices not only reflect irresponsible commercial greed but also threaten biodiversity and harm the country’s reputation as an active partner in environmental protection. The association called for an immediate investigation, removal of these illegal products, imposition of deterrent penalties on those involved, and enhanced market oversight to prevent recurrence of such incidents.
The need for regulation and monitoring
Between the alleged benefits of turtle eggs and the serious concerns about the extinction of these creatures, strict regulation and monitoring remain the optimal solution to ensure the preservation of ecological balance and human health.