The term "wild game" generally refers to wild animals and birds. Let's contrast wild game with farm-raised game. Farm raised game are originally wild species of animals and birds that have been raised for sale under existing State regulations. These regulations are important to consumers because game species raised on farms under appropriate conditions can be sold via the marketplace to the end consumer.

Conversely, wild game species cannot be sold, but can be harvested (hunted) for personal use. In essence, farm-raised game are specifically intended for the consumer marketplace, and are proving to be more and more popular as people discover their health benefits in comparison to traditional meats.

There is one major distinction between wild game, as most people think of it, vs. farm raised game. Farm raised game is intended for the individual consumer, while wild game can be harvested but not sold in the consumer marketplace. Also, farm raised game has much greater health benefit, and taste, as mentioned.

Several prominent restaurant chains are now offering wild game meats, such as buffalo, ostrich, elk, caribou, and others. The clean, mild taste of these alternative cuts of meat are pleasant surprises to those who have never tried wild game meats. In actuality, it is farm raised game that's served on restaurant menus, although the term wild game meat is the most accepted term when referring to meats like buffalo, ostrich, elk, etc.

Healthy Wild Game Meats Becoming More Available

As an added benefit, wild game meats are extremely high in protein and low in carbohydrates. These benefits have led to higher demand, particularly as consumers try these cuts of meat and learn how good they taste and how easy they are to prepare. While these meats are infrequently available in supermarkets, several specialty suppliers sell directly to the consumer market.

Demand for wild game meats continues to increase, not only due to their low fat content but because they are high in protein and very easy to prepare. Specialty suppliers and online resources sites offer cooking tips, and elk meat, ostrich meat, and buffalo meats are packaged as burgers, steaks, or roasts. Wild game meats are easy to cook, and most diners are pleasantly surprised with their taste.

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