Exploring the Food and Cultural Significance of Native Chicken in Ilocos Sur

Native chicken has inspired contributions to culture, art, cuisine, and religion over the millennia. This study was conducted to explore the food and cultural significance of native chicken in Ilocos Sur. It employed a quantitative type- descriptive research design and qualitative methods of research utilizing an interview schedule supported to dig deeper into the food and cultural practices in the use of native chicken. There were 108 respondents composed of chicken growers and native chicken consumers. Based on the findings of the study, it is concluded that the majority of the native chicken respondents are male, with age ranges from 41-50 years old, married, with 4-6 family members, self- employed, and have a monthly income below 5,000.00. Native chicken is originally grown, unique taste, low-fat content, leanness, and pigmentation characteristics of the meat are considered the buying preferences of consumers while tinola and adobo are still the consumers’ food preferences. The consumption of native chicken is an important source of high-quality protein food and its utilization largely depends upon the occasion it serves. Native chicken has socio-cultural, religious, and medicinal significance among rural communities and also occupies a very special place in the ancient culture and traditions of the Ilocano. Dressed native chicken either fresh or frozen is recommended for commercialization. A need for dissemination of the importance of native chicken in terms of food and buying preferences. Native chicken has a brilliant contribution to culture, art, cuisine, science, and religion. Therefore, it necessitates being preserved. New cooking or value-added native chicken products to be developed as additional income or for commercialization.

Keywords –Cultural beliefs, folklores, food preferences, native chicken, practices, quantitative method