From the hills of Scotland to your plate, our award-winning venison is sustainably sourced from Highland Game. They partner with 300 of the best private estates from Balmoral to Blair Atholl, and high quality producers like Forestry and Land Scotland who share their sustainable values, which means you get only the best on your plate.
We caught up with Euan, Director at Highland game to learn more about the story behind their wild British venison, and why they think everyone should give venison a try.
Can you explain in just a few words what Highland Game are about?
Highland Game was founded in 1997 by Danish entrepreneur Christian Nissen, with a vision to elevate the quality of wild venison in the UK. Today, we’re proud to be recognised as the No.1 brand for Wild Venison. Our reputation is built on our expertise in delivering from forest to fork, ensuring the best for our customers and consumers.
Why do you think Venison might not be as popular as other meat, like beef & lamb?
Venison is often seen as a more niche protein since it’s not a common dietary staple. Many people aren’t familiar with what venison is, how to cook it, or the benefits it offers. In the past, venison was mostly supplied locally without consistent quality standards, which made it harder for people to feel confident about choosing it. At Highland Game, we’re leading the way in raising those quality standards, working with our partners to make venison more accessible and popular than ever before.
Is Venison nutritious?
Yes, venison outshines other red meats when it comes to nutrition! It’s higher in protein and lower in fat compared to beef and lamb, making it a lean, protein-packed option. In fact, venison haunch has even less fat than skinless chicken breast. It’s also low in calories and full of essential B-vitamins, which are important for energy, nerve health, and overall well-being. Plus, venison is rich in iron and bursting with zinc, and it’s a great source of healthy fats like Omega-3s, which support heart health, brain function, and help reduce inflammation.
Can you describe the taste of Venison?
Venison has a firmer texture than beef and a flavour that’s richer and earthier. When handled properly, like we do at Highland Game, it’s not gamey at all. Its distinctive taste comes from the deer’s unique natural diet, which includes tree saplings, bark, fruits, and berries.
Why is deer management necessary?
Deer play a key role in supporting biodiversity. However, without natural predators, their populations continue to rise, leading to problems like damage to crops and tree-planting efforts, which are crucial for combatting climate change.
Currently, deer numbers exceed 2 million, and experts suggest that around 750,000 deer need to be harvested annually to keep the population in check. Managing deer populations is a responsibility we take seriously, promoting humane, environmentally responsible practices. Our approach to deer management ensures the balance of nature, respecting the animals and preserving the biodiversity they help shape.
What would you say to someone who hadn’t tried venison before?
Give venison a try! It’s a fantastic alternative to beef and lamb, and by choosing venison, you’re supporting a low-carbon meat option. Plus, you’re helping tree planters grow more forests and allowing wild deer populations to live in better balance with nature.
Venison is a super source of protein, rich in flavour, and packed with natural goodness. Choosing high-quality red meat from ethical, sustainable sources also helps boost rural economies. With a lower carbon footprint than beef and just as much versatility, venison is free from additives and highly nutritious. Just remember, since it’s low in fat, be careful not to overcook it!
What’s your favourite Mindful Chef recipe using Highland Game’s wild venison?
Can I say all of them? Venison is so versatile it’s perfect in so many dishes, but I don’t think you can beat it in a warming, hearty stew.
We’re so excited to partner with Mindful Chef to bring venison to their customers, which we believe is a fantastic way to introduce more people to the unique quality and delicious flavour of venison.
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To get a taste of Highland Game’s wild British Venison, check out your Mindful Chef menu.