Cuy

Guinea pig was domesticated in the Andean region about 7000 years ago. Before you say “aah, cute”, this was obviously for food rather than as pets. The cavia porcellus, which was traditionally primarily part of a ceremonial meal, has increased in popularity over a few decades and as well as still seeing them for sale at festivals, specialist restaurants “cuyerias” can be found. About 65 million are eaten per year in Peru alone. As I am vegetarian, I have had to ask what it tastes like. Something between chicken and lamb has been the only response I`ve had so far.

More interestingly, the guinea pig has been described as an “Andean X-Ray”. It is traditionally rubbed over the head and face of the patient and is then inserted under their clothes. Some people sleep with them close to the body too, and the idea is that illness can be transferred to the poor guinea pig. If the rodent dies, it is thought that it has taken away the sickness. If it survives, it is assumed the malaise remains inside the animal.