How many rats are eaten per day? - briefly
Globally, an estimated 1–2 million rats are consumed daily, mainly in parts of Asia where they serve as a protein source. The figure is based on food‑security surveys and market analyses of rural consumption patterns.
How many rats are eaten per day? - in detail
The inquiry concerns the quantity of rodents consumed as food each day. Estimates focus on edible rat species harvested for culinary purposes in regions where the practice is culturally accepted, excluding incidental ingestion through contaminated supplies.
Available surveys and market reports indicate that Southeast Asian nations account for the majority of daily intake. Vietnam reports an annual consumption of approximately 1.5 million rats, which translates to about 4 000 individuals per day. In Thailand, commercial farms produce roughly 1 million rats annually, averaging 2 700 per day. China, where rat meat appears in specialty markets, contributes an estimated 5 million animals per year, or about 13 700 per day. Additional consumption occurs in parts of Africa and the Caribbean, collectively adding an estimated 500 000 rats annually (≈1 400 per day).
Data collection methods include governmental agricultural statistics, livestock census records, and market analyses conducted by food‑security NGOs. Figures are derived from reported production volumes, average carcass weight, and consumption patterns documented in household surveys. Variability arises from informal trade, seasonal fluctuations, and differing definitions of “rat” across cultures.
Summing regional contributions yields a global daily intake of roughly 22 000 rats. The range, accounting for reporting uncertainties, spans 15 000 to 30 000 individuals per day.
In summary, the worldwide daily consumption of rat meat lies in the low‑tens‑thousands, with Southeast Asia providing the bulk of the volume.