What are large rats for consumption called? - briefly
The edible large rodent is commonly called the cane rat, also known as the grasscutter. It is a West‑African species prized for its meat.
What are large rats for consumption called? - in detail
Large rodents that are harvested for food are commonly referred to by the specific species or regional trade names rather than a generic term. In West Africa, the species Thryonomys swinderianus is marketed as “cane rat” or “grasscutter.” It is prized for its lean meat and is sold fresh, smoked, or dried in markets across Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.
In Central Africa, the giant pouched rat (Cricetomys gambianus) is known locally as “rat” or “African giant rat.” It appears in traditional dishes in the Democratic Republic of Congo and surrounding countries, often roasted whole or stewed with spices.
Southeast Asia features several sizable murine species used as food. The rice-field rat (Rattus argentiventer) and the bandicoot rat (Bandicota indica) are captured in Thailand, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Market stalls label the meat simply as “rat,” while culinary texts refer to it as “field rat” or “bandicoot rat meat.”
In the Pacific islands, the Polynesian “rat” (Rattus exulans) is occasionally harvested for subsistence, identified in local languages as “kuri” (Cook Islands) or “‘i’o” (Samoa).
Key characteristics of these edible rodents include:
- Body weight ranging from 1 kg (cane rat) to over 2 kg (giant pouched rat).
- High protein content (approximately 20 % by weight) with low fat levels.
- Traditional preparation methods: grilling, smoking, frying, or incorporation into stews.
Regulatory considerations differ by country. West African nations often classify cane rat as livestock, subject to veterinary inspection. In Southeast Asia, rat meat may be regulated under wildlife protection statutes, requiring permits for commercial trade.
Understanding the specific nomenclature—cane rat, grasscutter, giant pouched rat, field rat—provides clarity for consumers, researchers, and policymakers addressing the role of large rodents in regional food systems.