Balut eggs are duck eggs that have been fertilized and aged for a period of 12 to 20 days. Consuming an embryonic duck egg may not sound alluring to the inexperienced. However, balut is so well-liked in the Philippines that it is frequently referred to as a national street food, it is normally served warm after being cooked for 20 to 30 minutes and then seasoned with salt, vinegar, or soy sauce. Balut contains a clear soup that is so delicious that some people merely drink it and throw out the rest of the egg. Despite being less sulfurous as typical hard-boiled chicken eggs, a good balut yolk has a creamy texture similar to cream cheese. Additionally, a very good balut has a milder flavor and a soft embryo that practically melts in your mouth like a mousse.

Balut is a cheap and accessible source of protein in Southeast Asia. They are brimming with vitamin C and beta carotene, two potent antioxidants that assist your immune system by removing free radicals from your bloodstream. They also contain niacin, riboflavin, and thiamine, which support energy metabolism. Balut eggs are a nutritious addition to diet because they contain protein (14 grams per egg), high in calcium, iron, and phosphorus, and just 188 calories per egg. Both men and women can consume balut, however it is believed that for women, it serves only as a source of nutrients and energy. Yet, for men, the high protein content of the balut and other nutritional additives not only provide energy but also cause a great deal of heat to be generated throughout the body, acting as a natural aphrodisiac. Balut has even been referred to as the Filipino Viagra, however, no credible scientific research has yet to support it. Due to its nutritional value, balut can be beneficial for your health. However, just the yolk of a single fertilized duck egg contains about 359 mg of cholesterol. That is 59 mg greater than the 300 mg of cholesterol recommended daily by the FDA. Balut is typically consumed as a snack; thus, it wouldn't be difficult for enthusiasts of the food to have higher cholesterol levels. Heart disease risk can be increased by high cholesterol. As a result of their high cholesterol content, balut eggs should be consumed in moderation.

PDO I Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND

References:

The untold truth of balut

https://www.mashed.com/158543/the-untold-truth-of-balut/

What is a balut egg?

https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/balut-egg-2775.html

Reasons why you should eat Balut

https://www.mashed.com/196247/reasons-why-you-should-be-eating-balut/