Kadaknath

Kadaknath
Nicknames Kali Masi
Country of origin Madhya Pradesh,India
Use Dual-purpose breed: eggs, meat
Traits
Skin color Black
Egg color white
Classification

The Kadaknath or Kali Masi is an Indian breed of chicken local to Jhabua and Dhar districts of eastern Madhya Pradesh, where it is known as "Kali masi" ("fowl having black flesh").[1] Due to its high protein and very low fat and cholesterol levels, it is in high demand. Its fat content, is 0.73 — 1.03% compared to 13 to 25% in most other chicken breeds. This famous kadaknath chicken from Jhabua District of Madhya Pradesh, India has now got a geographical indication (GI Tag) tag. It was approved by Indian government on 30 July 2018.[2]

The breed

The Kadaknath is popular for its adaptability and good-tasting black meat,[3] which is believed to infuse vigor.[4] Its color stems from melanin.[1]

Colour

The birds are completely black: black plumage with a greenish iridescence, black legs and toenails, black beak and tongue, black comb and wattles, black meat and bones and even dark organs.The rooster weigh 2–2.5 kg and the hens from 1.5–2 kg. The hens lay cream-colored eggs with a slight pink tint, although they are poor setters and rarely hatch their own brood. Eggs weigh an average of 45 g.This breed is also found in Indonesia where it is known as Ayam Cemani the colour of the egg is black.

Threat of extinction

Due to the relatively high consumption of the breed, its numbers have sharply declined. To save the breed from extinction, the state government started a Kadaknath poultry breeding program involving 500 families from below the poverty line families, who were to receive financial support and assistance.[4]

References

  1. 1 2 "Indigenous Stock". 26 May 2009.
  2. ↑ "Famous Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua of MP gets Geographical Indication tag". The Financial Express. 2018-08-02. Retrieved 2018-08-04.
  3. ↑ Belsare, R. M.; S.G. Narayankhedkar (2004). "Relative selection efficiency and expected selection estimates in Kadakanath breed of poultry". The Journal of Bombay Veterinary College. 12 (1and2): 64.
  4. 1 2 Mahapatra, Dhananjay (2008-11-26). "For 'kadaknath' lovers, party no bar". The Times of India. Retrieved 2009-05-28.


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