Addressing Donated Lead-Contaminated Meats within the Ohio Food Bank System

Background: Lead contamination in game-hunted meat (GHM) remains a health risk due to common use of lead bullets in hunting, affecting meat donated to food banks. This qualitative study examined these risks in Ohio and Minnesota food bank systems, focusing on stakeholders' roles, awareness, and safety measures. Methods: Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with 26 stakeholders, including meat processors, meat distribution organizations, state meat inspectors, food banks, and food pantries in Ohio and Minnesota. Participants were interviewed about their knowledge and practices related to lead contamination in donated game meat. Results: Significant disparities in awareness and safety measures were found between states. Ohio food banks and pantries exhibited minimal awareness of lead contamination risks (0/18 participants) and relied heavily on meat processors for safety, with few processors employing comprehensive safety measures beyond basic bullet removal. In contrast, Minnesota has a robust system with mandatory x-ray screening of this meat in place, albeit with financial and logistical challenges. Notably, approximately 5-15% of donated meat in Minnesota is discarded annually due to lead contamination. Food banks and pantries in Ohio expressed a strong willingness to learn and implement safety changes when informed about the risks. Conclusion: This study highlights health risk within the Ohio food bank system due to lead-contaminated game meat, necessitating increased awareness and targeted interventions. Willingness of Ohio stakeholders to implement changes underscores the need for educational campaigns and policy discussions to enhance food safety. Collaborative efforts between states could further refine these interventions and promote nationwide food safety standards.