Ejiao

Why in the News?

• A U.K.-based charity report (June 2024) highlighted that nearly 6 million donkeys are killed annually worldwide for producing Ejiao, a traditional Chinese medicine.

About Ejiao

• Definition: A gelatin-based traditional Chinese medicine made by boiling donkey hides.
• Claims: Believed to improve immunity, cure anaemia, and provide anti-ageing benefits.
• Scientific Basis: No conclusive scientific evidence of its claimed benefits.

Scale of the Issue

• 2013: ~3,200 tonnes of Ejiao produced → required ~1 million donkey hides.
• 2021: ~15,700 tonnes produced (390% increase) → required ~6 million donkey hides.
• Impact: Massive animal cruelty, illegal trade, and ecological concerns.

Global Concerns

• Animal Welfare: Large-scale donkey slaughter leading to cruelty and population decline.
• Cross-Continental Issue: Donkey populations declining in Africa, Asia, and Latin America to feed China’s demand.
• Supply Gap: China’s domestic donkey population has plummeted, fuelling imports and illegal trafficking.
• Socio-economic Impact: Donkeys are essential working animals for rural communities in Africa and Asia → loss affects livelihoods.