Tourists can sink their teeth into an innovative new addition to the menu at the Cactus Garden from today, as Spain´s first ever Cactus Burger is unveiled to the public.

The burger contains around 50% tunera cactus - the species that is cultivated for cochineal production and which is much in evidence in and around Guatiza and surrounding areas.

Back in the 19th century cochineal production was a booming local industry and the carmen-coloured natural product was even used to dye the red coats of English soldiers, before fading away in the face of the introduction of synthetic dyes.

As well as tunera the Cactus Burger contains 50% millet, potato and onion and is served with goat´s yogurt mayo, smoked cheese and lettuce on a tomato bread bun - as far a cry from McDonald´s as you could hope to get.

The use of cacti in the diet dates back to pre-Columbian times and tunera is something of a super food as it boasts an abundance of antioxidants and health benefits, such as stabilizing blood sugar levels, lowering cholesterol and protecting the liver. Whilst also containing a abundance of taurine, an essential amino acid commonly found in energy drinks which aids numerous biochemical processes.