Jiaji duck is a distinctive famous duck breed from Hainan.
An ordinary duck weighs only about 3kg, but the average weight of a Jiaji duck reaches about 5kg. When they are born they look just like ordinary ducklings, except that their claws have hooks. The Jiaji duck is a superior breed introduced from abroad more than 100 years ago by overseas Chinese from Qiong, that is, the Muscovy duck, and after long-term raising by the people of Jiaji Town it was named the Jiaji duck. Compared with other Muscovy ducks, it is larger in size and better in meat quality. This is thanks to a special feeding method: ordinary ducks are ready for market in 60 days, while Jiaji ducks still have to be force-fed for more than 20 days after 60 days, eating a special food made from sweet potatoes and rice.
Normally, ducks that take a long time to raise and reach the market late increase breeding costs, and profits are correspondingly reduced. According to the breeders, raising Jiaji ducks not only did not lose money but actually made money. This is because after their special fattening period, not only does the duck meat become thicker, but the fat also seeps into the meat, forming a thin layer of fat between the skin and the meat; after cooking, the duck meat becomes even more tender and delicious, and has won consumers' recognition. Over time, the fame of the Jiaji duck has grown, so it is only reasonable that it can take its place as one of Hainan's four famous dishes.