Lead in Venison
There are concerns about lead exposure from eating venison from deer killed with lead bullets. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recommends using ammunition that doesn’t contain lead because this is the simplest and most effective way to prevent this type of lead exposure.
General Resources
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Health Consultation "The Potential for Ingestion Exposure to Lead Fragments in Venison in Wisconsin" (PDF)
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Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website "Precautions for Eating Deer Harvested with Lead Ammunition"
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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources website "Lead information for Hunters"
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Information on Lead in Venison and a video presentation on the issue of lead fragments found in venison and collaboration to study its effects on venison consumers.
Specific Resources for Food Pantries, Food Processors, and their Clients
Food pantries and their clients should be aware that lead-bullet fragments may be found in some donated venison. Processors of deer should use best practices to reduce the amount of lead that ends up in the venison.
Letter to Wisconsin Food Pantry Managers (PDF)
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