Bird's Nest Soup is a traditional dish made from the nests of swiftlets, a type of bird found in Southeast Asia. The nests are harvested and processed into soup, believed to have health benefits. However, the harvesting process is exploitative, leading to animal suffering, habitat destruction, and declining swiftlet populations. The demand for this luxury dish has led to overharvesting and environmental concerns, with little scientific evidence supporting its health claims. Additionally, the labor-intensive collection of nests poses risks to human workers, who receive minimal compensation.

Plant-based alternatives, like soups made with agar-agar, can replicate the texture of Bird's Nest Soup while aligning with vegan principles. This cruelty-free option provides a more ethical and sustainable choice for consumers while avoiding the exploitation of swiftlets for this delicacy.