When it comes to cooking with game, one type of meat is generating more interest than any others – venison – thanks to the fact it is sustainable, lean and healthy and in plentiful supply in the UK.

That’s according to specialist supplier Wild and Game, which analysed Google Trend Data from the past 12 months to compare average search interest for different types of game recipes.

Venison topped the list, followed by pheasant, with pigeon, partridge and wild boar following behind.

Wild and Game co-founder Steven Frampton said: “It’s not surprising to see venison leading the field – it’s one of our most popular products. It’s a flavoursome, leaner alternative to beef that has great green credentials, as it’s produced with minimal impact on the environment.

“Deer have to be culled to protect natural habitats, so it makes sense to eat venison instead of farmed beef. Pheasant is another very popular choice for our customers; it’s a great alternative to chicken and has a more interesting flavour, which some say is how chicken used to taste before intensive farming.

“While search interest is lower for pigeon, partridge and boar recipes, at Wild and Game we’re seeing rising interest in these ingredients as customers get used to cooking with game and become more adventurous with their choices.

“Like pheasant, partridge is an excellent chicken alternative, while wild boar is a delicious pork or beef substitute. Pigeon is a real delicacy – the rich, red meat is perfect simply pan fried but also works beautifully in pies.

“In general, we’re certainly seeing a rising appetite for game across the board in the UK, and with the increased focus on sustainability and healthy eating, we expect this to continue.”

Wild and Game is on a mission to get more people in the UK cooking with game, which is why its customers receive monthly game recipe booklets showcasing the versatility of these native British ingredients. The recipes come from all over the world and adapt to suit the seasons, showcasing game as a modern, versatile, year-round ingredient.

The company’s venison offering includes a wide variety of cuts of venison, from joints to steaks, venison mince, diced venison and venison burgers, pies, pates, ready meals and more.

www.wildandgame.co.uk