Re: Are frog legs used for food considered meat or seafood?

Hi, Scott.


From a biological standpoint, amphibians (frogs) and reptiles are 
cold-blooded as are fish/shellfish.

Traditionally, "meat" is considered, by the lay person, to be from 
warm-blooded birds and mammals.

From a US regulatory standpoint, FDA defines fish as "fresh or saltwater 
finfish, crustaceans, other forms of aquatic life (including, but not 
limited to, alligator, frog, aquatic turtle, jellyfish, sea cucumber, sea 
urchin and the roe of such animals) other than birds and mammals, and all 
mollusks".  21CFR123.3(d).

So, science - and the FDA - says that frog legs are different from 
birds/mammals and, ergo, would not be considered "meat".  But I would not 
presume to say how this information impacts on the tenets of the Catholic 
church.  I really think this needs interpretation from your parish 
officials.

I hope you & your family have a joyous Easter!

Carol Crouse
The Food Chain Ltd.
Fredericton, NB, Canada