All three species are now being raised profitably on Tennessee farms. These birds produce high quality meat, oil, leather, and feathers. In today's ratite market, there is no waste.
Ratite meat is low in fat and cholesterol, high in iron and protein, and very tender.
The leather from ostriches is strong with distinct feather quill marks and is also very soft and smooth to touch. The skin from the legs appears scaly and compares favorably to reptile leather. Skins are manufactured into wallets, handbags, shoes, belts, briefcases, upholstery and small portions of garments such as shoulder pads, vests and jackets.