Health risks and bioavailability of metal residues from hunting ammunition in game meat
Journal
Food Risk Assess Europe
Date Issued
2025-10
Author(s)
Durkalec, Maciej
Kanstrup, Niels
Paulsen, Peter
Mateoe, Rafael
Pain, Debbie
Lerche, Dorte Bjerregaard
Akkari, Hafidh
Berny, Philippe
Gross‐Bošković, Andrea
Stojković, Elizabeta Dimitrieska
García‐Fernández, Antonio J.
Haaseb, Annina
Jakšić, Sandra
Ciglenečki, Urška Jamnikar
Kirchner, Manuela
Krone, Oliver
Matviienko, Anastasiia
Mader, Anneluise
Nawrocka, Agnieszka
Needham, Tersia
Pieper, Robert
Rottenberger, Ingo
Rupp, Jana
Taggart, Mark
Venâncio, Carlos
Walsh, Jim
DOI
DOI: 10.2903/fr.efsa.2025.FR-0080
Abstract
The workshop "Health Risks and Bioavailability of Metal Residues from Hunting Ammunition
in Game Meat," held in Billund, Denmark, explored the pressing issue of lead contamination
in game meat. Experts from various disciplines discussed the health risks posed to humans
and wildlife, the environmental impacts of lead residues, and potential alternatives to lead based ammunition. Key findings highlighted the bioavailability and toxicity of lead from
ammunition, the range and possibilities of current non-lead alternatives, and the need for
harmonized regulations across Europe. The workshop underscored the importance of hunter
education, public awareness, and interdisciplinary research to facilitate the transition to nontoxic ammunition and reduce contamination. Recommendations include stronger enforcement
of lead bans, targeted outreach to stakeholders, and comprehensive risk assessments for
alternative materials. These efforts aim to ensure the sustainability of hunting practices and
the safety of game meat in the food chain.
in Game Meat," held in Billund, Denmark, explored the pressing issue of lead contamination
in game meat. Experts from various disciplines discussed the health risks posed to humans
and wildlife, the environmental impacts of lead residues, and potential alternatives to lead based ammunition. Key findings highlighted the bioavailability and toxicity of lead from
ammunition, the range and possibilities of current non-lead alternatives, and the need for
harmonized regulations across Europe. The workshop underscored the importance of hunter
education, public awareness, and interdisciplinary research to facilitate the transition to nontoxic ammunition and reduce contamination. Recommendations include stronger enforcement
of lead bans, targeted outreach to stakeholders, and comprehensive risk assessments for
alternative materials. These efforts aim to ensure the sustainability of hunting practices and
the safety of game meat in the food chain.