Venison a 'niche product' but there could be export opportunities - Bord Bia
Venison is a "niche product" within Irish meat production, however, recent developments in the sector have "indicated potential growth in venison availability", according to Bord Bia.
Bord Bia's sheep meat and livestock sector manager Seamus McMenamin said that the "lack of a traceability system or quality assurance standards limits to some extent what we can do".
"However, Bord Bia engages with relevant companies to identify and support domestic and export market opportunities for Irish venison as appropriate," McMenamin told Agriland.
"A small number of companies in Ireland are currently engaged in the processing, marketing and export of venison and Bord Bia engage with these as appropriate.
"Engagement with these companies has indicated that key export opportunities exist in central Europe, particularly in Germany."
Export data for venison is difficult to quantify, as the Central Statistics Office data does not capture venison as a separate category.
"Specific information on the production volumes of venison in Ireland is also not currently available, and it remains a niche part of the overall Irish meat sector," McMenamin added.
"Likewise, information on venison consumption within Ireland is difficult, particularly given that the majority of domestic consumption is highly seasonal and is primarily in the foodservice sector where reliable data is particularly difficult to source."
Registered to keep deer
According to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), there are currently 76 herds registered as keeping deer.
A DAFM spokesperson said that any person farming deer is required to be registered with the department and to hold an active herd number.
"Responsibility lies with the herd owner to ensure that the department is notified of any changes to the farm or herd status for disease control and traceability purposes," the spokesperson added.
In 2025, responsibility for the collection of deer slaughter data transferred to DAFM from the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. Data for 2025 is not yet available, the department said.
Wild venison
According to the Irish Deer Society, wild venison can be considered a sustainable meat option, "often sourced through regulated culling practices that support local wildlife conservation and ecosystem balance".
According to the society, the meat has a number of health benefits.
"It’s leaner than beef, high in protein and packed with essential nutrients such as iron, zinc and B vitamins.
"Its low-fat content and high levels of omega-3 fatty acids make it an attractive option for those seeking heart-healthy meals."
The society said venison also "encourages a local and seasonal food system, as it is typically sourced from regional hunting seasons".
"This reduces the environmental impact associated with long-distance transportation and supports local economies and traditional practices."
