“Sustainable Bird’s Nest” Anyone?

Have you heard of Eucheuma (珊瑚草)?

Eucheuma is a species of red seaweed said to be consumed for it’s health properties as early as the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC–256 BC) in China.

Based on extensive research by Assistant Professor Yang Hongshun from the National University of Singapore (NUS), eucheuma is found to be rich in plant collagen; essential dietary minerals (calcium, iron, sodium, iodine); dietary fiber; anti-oxidant, amino acids; as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

As such, a brand in Singapore, YGCG, is taking the bold move to market it as a cheaper and more sustainable alternative to pure bird’s nest as eucheuma is found to contain 10 times more collagen than the latter.

The brand claims that regular consumption of eucheuma can promote a healthy digestive system; prevent colon cancer and cardiovascular disease; lower blood pressure, cholesterol and sugar levels; boost immunity and brain development; and aid detoxification, anti-aging and tissue repair.

YGCCG offers eucheuma drinks with bird’s nest in six different flavours:

Currently, YGCG is the only brand in Singapore offering the goodness of eucheuma to consumers in a bottled form for direct consumption. Each bottle retails at S$23.50. More details are available via the official website. Bulk order with free delivery is available online.

It’s definitely cheaper than pure bird’s nest and a better alternative as a rich collagen source for those who prefer something more sustainably sourced.

If you are worried about the safety of consuming this “sustainable bird’s nest”, the YGCG eucheuma health drinks are produced in accordance to the Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), and are approved by the Health Promotion Board (HPB) and the Agri-food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA).

We tried the drinks and they tasted pretty okay. Chill them in the fridge and they are can be enjoyed as healthy after-meal desserts.

Enjoy. 🙂