Influence of driven hunts on selected game meat quality parameters in central Germany

Common hunting practices in Germany include stand hunts and driven hunts. Unlike stand hunts, driven hunts involve setting game in motion. This could potentially induce stress in animals and consequently affect meat quality. In order to evaluate the potential impact of the “driven hunt” method on certain standard-relevant meat quality parameters, 150 roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), 57 wild boar (Sus scrofa) and 20 red deer (Cervus elaphus) tongues from areas in East Westphalia, North and East Hesse were examined using a new standardised method. A particular advantage of this study is the use of tongue tissue (m. lingualis proprius) as sample material. Tongues are usually discarded, leaving muscle parts preferred for consumption intact. To verify results, tongue and shoulder (m. biceps brachii) muscle samples from ten roe deer per hunting method were directly compared. The method evaluated sensory parameters such as meat texture, colour, cooking juice loss and drip loss. Chemical analyses included pH values as an indicator of meat maturation, as well as D-glucose content to assess individual stress levels. All parameters consistently indicated high quality of game meat, which was measured in both shoulder and tongue muscles, regardless of hunting method. The particularly low amount of elevated stress values measured shows that hunting can be a gentle method of acquiring meat. This highlights the strict adherence to ethical hunting practices and hygiene standards in Germany, ensuring production of a premium product.