These differences in social symbolism extend to taste preferences as well. Taiwanese domestic goat meat is prized for its sweet flavor and nearly absent gaminess, but production remains extremely limited. With roughly 280,000 goats raised locally and prices hovering around NT$500 per kilogram, domestic producers struggle to compete. Imported sheep meat—mostly from mature animals—carries a stronger gamey flavor derived from male hormones, yet costs only NT$130 per kilogram. This stark price gap has devastated local goat production; domestic goat meat now holds just 5% of Taiwan's market share.

In animal husbandry, sheep and goats are classified as distinct species. Despite just holding 5% market share, Taiwan's livestock industry continues to focus primarily on goats, whose meat has long been valued for boosting vitality and postpartum recovery. Goat hot pot has become a signature winter dish. Local wisdom ranks goat coat colors by preference: "First black, second yellow, third spotted, fourth white."

Kenting Goat Combines Three Breeds' Strengths

Common goat breeds in Taiwan fall into two categories: meat goats and dairy goats, with breeds originating from around the world. Popular meat goat varieties include Kenting Goats, Taiwan Black Goats, and Boer goats. Dairy breeds include Saanen, Alpine, and Toggenburg, while Nubian goats serve dual purposes: milk and meat production.

Among Taiwan's goat breeds, the Kenting Goat stands out. This meat breed combines the strengths of three varieties. It was developed by crossbreeding Boer, Nubian, and Hengchun strain Taiwan black goats. The result inherits the Boer's rapid growth and minimal feeding requirements, the Nubian's superior meat quality and strong maternal instincts, and the Taiwan black goat's disease resistance and distinctive black coat.

The Kenting Goat excels in rapid growth, meat quality, and environmental adaptability. Officially registered as a new breed by the Council of Agriculture in 2015, it offers potential for developing specialty branded meat products and exploring new commercial applications.