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Health Risks of Eating Wild Animals

Many individuals prefer wild game meat such as deer, elk, antelope, duck and wild turkey to the more common forms of domesticated meat such as chicken, pork and beef. Wild game is leaner, has fewer calories and less saturated fat. However, it is important to be aware of the health-related risks that can be associated with eating wild animals.

  1. Lead Exposure

    • Wild game such as deer are often killed using lead bullets or lead shot. These high-velocity bullets can leave tiny particles of lead fragments in the meat, even after it is processed. These fragments are usually too small to be seen. Young children and pregnant women are at the greatest risk from this type of lead exposure. Although the lead found in wild game has not been shown to cause lead poisoning, it is still a good idea to avoid ingesting it. The best way to eliminate lead fragments in the meat is to throw away the portion of the meat with the shot damage.

    Chronic Wasting Disease

    • Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is similar to mad cow disease found in processed beef, but CWD shows up in deer and elk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends having all harvested deer and elk tested for CWD, especially in known positive areas. Hunters are also advised to avoid shooting any animal that appears to be ill.

    Contaminated Water

    • Fish and waterfowl such as ducks and geese can contain chemicals such as mercury, cadmium and chlordane that might be harmful to humans. These chemicals build up in the body over time and can cause a variety of problems from minor changes in health to cancer and birth defects. To cut down on this type of risk, limit the amount of fish or waterfowl you consume, and maintain good sanitary practices when cleaning this type of game. Always keep fish cool after they have been skinned, and wear gloves when handling them.

    Parasites

    • Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that is passed to humans through a variety of ways, including by eating raw or undercooked meats such as wild game and also pork and lamb. Although it is harmless to most people, it can cause flu-like symptoms including swollen lymph glands and muscle aches and pains. The best way to prevent this type of parasite is to make sure all meat you consume is thoroughly cooked. Also use gloves when cutting and preparing the raw meat, and thoroughly wash utensils and cutting boards.

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