Handling game after the animal has been shot requires following the correct procedures to ensure the meat is of the highest possible quality. Here are some important points to consider:1. Field dressing – Take care of the animal immediatelyField dressing, or evisceration, should be done as soon as possible after the shot. This is important because intestinal bacteria can start spreading in the abdominal cavity after about 1-15 hours, depending on the gunshot wound. If the abdominal organs are damaged, field dressing should be done immediately. By placing the animal on its right side on a slope, the abdominal organs fall out more easily, reducing the risk of contamination.2. Avoid contaminationTo minimize the risk of contamination, it is important to keep the abdominal cavity free from soil, moss, and other impurities during transport. Do not transport multiple harvested animals together as the heat can lead to a process called sour fermentation, which negatively affects the meat quality. It is also good to use plastic gloves during field dressing to maintain good hygiene.3. Cool the meat properlyThe first 48 hours are critical to ensure that the meat does not become cold-shortened, which makes it tough. Cool the meat slowly, especially if the animal is large like a moose. During transport to the slaughterhouse, the hide can remain on to prevent the body from cooling too quickly, especially if it is cold outside.4. Proper storage in the slaughterhouseWhen the animal has been transported to the slaughterhouse, it is important that it is hung in a clean and well-ventilated room. The floor should be hard and washable for easy cleaning, and the room should have good ventilation and the ability to regulate temperature. Skinning should take place in a separate room to avoid bacterial spread from the skin to the meat.5. Water and hygieneGood quality water is important for rinsing the abdominal and chest cavities, but avoid rinsing the outside of the body. After rinsing, it is important to dry the meat thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth. If possible, dry dressing is better, where dirt is cut away with a knife instead of being washed off.6. Take care of the delicaciesWhen field dressing is complete, don't forget to make use of delicacies like liver, heart, and tongue. These organs are excellent ingredients that can be used in cooking, for example, liver pâté or heart for sandwiches.By following these steps, you can ensure that your game meat is handled in the best possible way after the shot, resulting in more tender, flavorful, and hygienic meat.
