Edible bird's nests--how do the red ones get red?

Ethnopharmacological Relevance: Red edible bird's nests are regarded as of higher beneficial value for health and hence fetch a higher price than the white ones. Their red colour remains a myth.

Aim Of The Study: To determine if white edible bird's nests can turn red by vapours generated from sodium nitrite in acidic conditions and by vapours from 'bird soil'.

Materials And Methods: White edible bird's nests were exposed to vapours from sodium nitrite dissolved in 2% HCl or from 'bird soil' in hot and humid conditions.

Conclusions: Vapours from sodium nitrite dissolved in 2% HCl or from 'bird soil' containing guano droppings from swiftlet houses were able to turn white edible bird's nests red. The reddening agent in 'bird soil' was water-soluble and heat-stable. The red colour of edible bird's nests is likely caused by the environmental factors in cave interiors and swiftlet houses.