Is it safe to eat raw venison?
Quick Answer
No
Eating raw venison is not recommended due to the risk of bacterial and parasitic infections. Cooking venison to a safe temperature kills these harmful organisms.
What Is It?
Venison is the meat of a deer. Raw venison refers to venison that has not been cooked or processed in any way.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several risks associated with eating raw venison:
- Bacterial infections: Raw venison can contain harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause food poisoning.
- Parasitic infections: Deer can carry parasites like Toxoplasma gondii and Trichinella, which can be transmitted to humans through raw or undercooked venison.
- Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD): While there is no known case of CWD transmission to humans, the disease is prevalent in deer populations and can potentially be transmitted through consumption of infected meat.
Safe Method?
The safest way to eat venison is to cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria or parasites.
Safe Alternatives
If you enjoy the taste of raw meat, consider dishes like steak tartare or carpaccio, which use beef that has been handled and prepared in a way to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
Storage Tips
Store raw venison in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.’, ‘For longer storage, freeze venison in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Preparation Tips
Always wash your hands before and after handling raw venison.’, ‘Use separate cutting boards for raw meat and other foods to prevent cross-contamination.