Shelled freshwater or marine reptiles of the order Chelonia, hunted for meat and shells, with turtle eggs also eaten. Turtle meat tastes good but its chewiness suits it mainly to soups; most commercial meat comes from sea turtles, though freshwater terrapins are often judged the finest eating. Many species are now legally protected, so lawful harvest is restricted. Where turtle is consumed, thorough cooking is essential because reptiles can carry Salmonella, and sustainable, legal sourcing is a prerequisite for any trade.