Overview of game meat utilisation challenges and opportunities: A European perspective

Re-wilding and similar initiatives have resulted in an increase in wildlife suitable for human consumption in Europe. However, game meat production and consumption present several challenges, including infectious diseases which pose risks to livestock, processers, and consumers. This review provides insights into the infectious diseases and toxic contaminants associated with game meat. The effect of killing method on the meat quality is also discussed and means of improving the meat quality of game meat is elucidated. The use of different food safety systems that could be applied to provide safe meat is reported. The importance of collaborative multisector approaches is emphasized, to generate and distribute knowledge and implement One Health strategies that ensure the safe, traceable, sustainable, and professional development of commercial game meat supply chains.

Automated summary

Re-wilding and similar initiatives in Europe have increased the availability of wildlife for human consumption. However, the production and consumption of game meat pose challenges such as infectious diseases and toxic contaminants. This review discusses these issues, including the impact of killing methods on meat quality and strategies for improving it. Various food safety systems are also explored to ensure the safe and sustainable development of commercial game meat supply chains through collaborative multisector approaches and One Health strategies.