The meaning of red turtle cakes

Red turtle cake is one of Taiwan's traditional rice foods, often used in festivals, ceremonies, and birthdays, symbolizing longevity.

(1) Red turtle cake with turtle patterns replacing live turtles in rituals.
According to the Council of Agriculture, in ancient times, live turtles were used in rituals. However, due to the scarcity and cruelty of obtaining live turtle, red turtle cakes with turtle patterns emerged as a substitute. Turtle shell pattern on the red turtle cake symbolizes auspiciousness, praying for longevity.

(2) The Shapes of Cakes are Mostly "Round," Symbolizing Harmony and Reunion
Taiwan produces abundant rice, and people not only use rice as the main staple food but also good at making various rice cakes. These are often used as offerings during worshipping rituals for gods and ancestors.

(3) The Red Color of "Red Turtle Cake" Symbolizes Auspiciousness, and the Turtle Shell Symbolizes Longevity
The tortoise, one of the Four Spirits (along with the dragon, phoenix, and Kylin), symbolizes auspiciousness and longevity. People have always sought auspiciousness and longevity, and in ancient times, turtles were one of the sacrificial offerings. Later, due to the difficulty in obtaining live turtles, rice-based turtles, red turtle cakes, gradually replaced live turtles and have been used ever since.