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Game and venison - meat for the modern consumer.
1University of Stellenbosch, Department of Animal Sciences, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa.
Meat Science
|November 9, 2011
Summary
Game meat and venison from southern Africa and Europe offer healthy, sustainable options. Traceability systems ensure consumer confidence in these alternative meat sources.
Area of Science:
- Food Science
- Animal Science
- Consumer Health
Background:
- Growing global demand for alternative protein sources.
- Increasing import of game meat and venison into Europe and the US.
- Consumer concerns regarding meat production, health, and traceability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review game meat and venison production and health aspects.
- To assess consumer perceptions of intensive farming practices.
- To examine traceability systems for imported meats.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on game meat and venison.
- Analysis of fatty acid composition and health implications.
- Evaluation of production systems (wild, free-range, intensive).
- Case study of South African traceability system.
Main Results:
- Game meat and venison are sustainably harvested with acceptable methods.
- These meats are low in fat, rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, and have favorable fatty acid ratios.
- Intensive farming of cervids may negatively impact consumer perception.
- South African traceability systems meet international import requirements.
Conclusions:
- Game meat and venison present healthy, sustainable alternatives to conventional meats.
- Robust traceability is crucial for consumer trust in imported game meat.
- Balancing intensive production with consumer perception is key for market growth.
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