Nests

Bird’s Nest – The Gift of Nature

 

Since ancient times, bird’s nest has been considered one of the eight most luxurious delicacies, often served at royal banquets and valued as a precious gift.

Today, scientific researchers worldwide and nutrition experts in Vietnam reaffirm that bird’s nest is a highly nutritious food.

Bird’s nest contains 31 trace elements essential for child development and supports the elderly. It is rich in calcium and iron, contains nutrients beneficial for the nervous system and memory, and stimulates digestion. Bird’s nest is also recommended for cancer patients post-radiation therapy and for postoperative recovery. In addition, threonine in bird’s nest contributes to the formation of elastin and collagen, helping women maintain youthful skin and beauty.

Types of Bird’s Nest

The two most common types are House Nest and Island Nest. Many believe that house nests can be “farmed” like poultry, but in reality, we only use specially designed structures to attract swifts to build nests inside. Swifts cannot be fed or touched, as they are unique birds that never touch the ground. They feed on small flying insects from the wild and return to their nests only in the late afternoon to care for their chicks. In house-nest farms, the moss nest of Aerodramus fuciphagus is most commonly harvested.

Island nests are mainly produced by swifts living in natural caves. Two species typically inhabit caves: Aerodramus fuciphagus (edible-nest swiftlet) and Aerodramus maximus (black-nest swiftlet). On the market, only the edible-nest swiftlet’s nests are sold as Island Nests. These nests, naturally formed on islands, usually resemble a cup with a thick body and firm base. The cup shape protects eggs and chicks from predators and withstands harsh weather, while the firm base helps the nest attach securely to high-humidity cave walls.

Nutrition and Harvest

The nutritional content of house nests and island nests is similar. However, due to limited availability and the difficulty of harvesting, island nests are generally more expensive. Depending on nest color, weather, and insect availability (swift food), nests can be harvested 1–4 times per year.

Health Benefits

Although not a pharmaceutical product, bird’s nest is considered a functional food supporting health for all ages. It supplements nutrition for healthy individuals, provides antibodies, and aids recovery for the sick. Bird’s nest is easy to prepare, from simple dishes like steamed bird’s nest with rock sugar to elaborate recipes such as bird’s nest with young pigeon or chicken rice with bird’s nest. It is suitable for all age groups.

Because of its nutritional value and health benefits, bird’s nest is widely recognized worldwide and increasingly popular in Vietnam.

- Availability

Bird’s nest can be harvested throughout the year, depending on the type and local conditions.

- Storage Guidelines

Transport & Storage: Bird’s nests should be kept in a cool, dry, and ventilated environment to maintain quality and prevent mold or spoilage.

In Store: Store in airtight containers or packages, away from moisture and direct sunlight, to preserve flavor, texture, and nutritional value.

- Planting and Harvest

At the farm / Cave

House nests are collected from specially designed swiftlet houses, while island nests are gathered from natural caves. Harvesting is done carefully to preserve the shape and quality of the nest. After collection, nests are cleaned, sorted, and packaged according to size and quality, ready for distribution and sale.