More venison in the third sector

Scottish Venison, the body that represents the Scottish venison sector has agreed a supply template with CFT, the charity that produces and donates meals to people in need throughout the UK. This pathway will channel venison from Scotland’s countryside to food banks, food kitchens, and other charity outlets.

The mechanism requires deer managers to donate carcasses which are then processed through Scottish game dealers for onward supply to the CFT. All venison processed in this way will then be distributed via CFT in Scotland either through its own venison ready meals or directly to charity kitchens.

Richard Cooke, chair of Scottish Venison, said: “We anticipate more venison coming into the supply chain as the deer sector responds to calls to increase its cull by an additional 50,000 carcasses and it is important that this supply is put to good use.”

SJ Hunt, chief executive, of the CFT, said: “By working with estates and deer managers, we hope this initiative sees the necessary cull be used for the good of feeding Scottish people.”