Michigan Venison Lovers Need to Know These Processing Rules

Offer me a good backstrap or venison chili, and I'm clearing my calendar. I, like most Michigan venison aficionados, have standards. Most involve a second helping.

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The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) wants my fellow venison lovers to know that improperly handled venison can harbor E. coli and cause serious illness. Caution is advised before burying your favorite spoon in chili.

Michigan Deer Processing: When a License Matters

two bowls of chili and a spoon on a wooden table

Processing your own venison for family meals in Michigan? Adding fat or seasoning at home doesn't require additional licensing. But when hiring someone else, an unlicensed custom processor can only cut, wrap, or grind meat without added ingredients. Packages must say "Not for Sale."  Share with family or friends, but don't resell it.

A processor that adds fat or flavorings, makes sausage, or smokes meat must be licensed by MDARD. Jerky and smoked meats also require a variance and a food establishment license. If you don't see one, ask to see the license.

Buying Farm-Raised Venison in Michigan

Use licensed, inspected sources with labels that list ingredients, weight, the processor's business name and contact information, plus a best-by date when applicable. If it's missing labels, doesn't list ingredients, and the seller can't show you a license? I'd find dinner elsewhere. "Trust me" isn't a food safety certification.

Safe Venison Cooking and Storage in Michigan

brown and green food on stick

FoodSafety.gov recommends cooking venison to 160°F, checked with a food thermometer. Keep raw venison refrigerated at 40°F or below, separate from ready-to-eat foods. Thaw it in the refrigerator, never on the counter.

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Freezer full? Hunters Feeding Michigan offers deer donation through participating processors at no cost to hunters. MDARD estimates each donated deer provides 160 meals.

Play it safe with venison; that way, everyone remembers how delicious your chili is and not the fastest route to the bathroom.