The chef and gastronomic influencer Rodrigo Fernandini is at the center of a controversy after sharing a video on his social networks in which he cooks a Motello tortoise yellow-legged, vulnerable species from the Amazon. The recording generated a wave of criticism for promoting the consumption of a protected species.
Faced with public outrage, the Peruvian chef issued a statement in which he apologized and announced the removal of the video. He recognized his mistake and reflected on the importance of protecting biodiversity. In addition, he reaffirmed his commitment to disseminate the cultural wealth of Peru with a more responsible and sustainable approach.
Chef Rodrigo Fernandini removes video and apologizes
Rodrigo Fernandini aroused strong criticism after publishing a video on his social networks in which he prepared an Amazonian dish using a yellow-footed motelo turtle, a vulnerable species according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The recording, shared on Instagram and TikTok, showed the chef and a local cook explaining the recipe for ‘Zarapatera de Motelo’, a dish from the Peruvian jungle.
Rodrigo Fernandini apologized on his social networks. Photo: Instagram
The Peruvian chef decided to delete the video and offer public apologies through a statement. “I recognize that it was a mistake not to have investigated previously, and I sincerely apologize for that,” said the influencer, who also expressed his respect for the woman who accompanied him in the video, arguing that both could be unaware of the state of vulnerability of the species. .
Statement from chef Rodrigo Fernandini. Photo: Instagram
The Motelo tortoise: a vulnerable species from the Amazon
The Motello tortoise The yellow-footed lizard (Chelonoidis denticulata) is a terrestrial species native to the rainforests of the Amazon and other tropical ecosystems of South America. This animal plays a crucial role in the forest ecosystem, as it acts as a long-distance seed disperser, contributing to plant regeneration and ecological balance.
Despite its ecological importance, the Motelo turtle faces numerous threats that have led to its classification as a vulnerable species by the IUCN. Hunting for human consumption, illegal trade and habitat loss due to deforestation are the main factors that put their survival at risk.
Join our entertainment channel
