Wild Game Meat—a Microbiological Safety and Hygiene Challenge?

This study reviewed findings on game meat microbiological safety and hygiene published between 2010 and 2020. Data on wild boar, deer, other ruminants, lagomorphs and game birds were analysed. In wild game meat, the same zoonotic agents as those found in meat from food-producing animals were identified. A diversity in sampling and laboratory diagnostic methodologies were used and variability of prevalence was observed. Wild boar meat microbiological status seemed more heterogeneous than that of deer. The bacterial mean counts on the carcasses varied between studies. A considerable proportion of carcasses would be classified as “unsatisfactory” by the EU process hygiene criteria. The analysed data suggest that more concerted efforts should be carried out to improve the safety of wild game meat and the protection of public health. The inclusion of wild game meat in surveillance and monitoring programmes under the EU Food Law is advisable.