How to identify signs of spoilage in your harvested game?

Visual Inspection

When inspecting your harvested game, check for any visible signs of spoilage. This includes checking the eyes, which should be sunken and not bulging; the ears, which should be dry and not wet; and the skin, which should be dry and not bloated. If the skin is wet, it could indicate a problem. Always remember, a good rule of thumb is to wait 24 hours before processing your game, as this allows for the natural breakdown of the bacteria.

Smell Test

The smell test is another crucial step in identifying spoilage. If the game has a strong, sour or ammonia-like odor, it’s likely spoiled. This is because bacteria that cause spoilage release these types of compounds as they break down the meat. If the game has a mild or neutral smell, it’s likely safe to eat. To perform the smell test, gently sniff the meat, particularly around the anus or vent area. If it smells bad, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.

Internal Inspection

Before processing your game, it’s essential to perform an internal inspection. This involves making a small incision in the abdominal cavity to check for signs of spoilage. Check for the presence of insects, such as maggots or flies, which can indicate that the game has begun to spoil. You should also check for any signs of moisture or liquid in the abdominal cavity, which can indicate a problem. If you notice any of these signs, it’s likely the game has spoiled and should be discarded.