Microbiological investigation on the effect of rinsing of intentionally soiled roe deer carcasses

Reduction of the microbial load of soiled carcasses is essential in the production of game meat. Rinsing with water is a common practice in handling game carcasses to remove any visible contamination. In this study, microbiological investigations were performed on carcasses of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), inoculated with a mixture of gastrointestinal content and then either rinsed (n = 3) or unrinsed (n = 3). Water rinsing may have short-term effects on bacterial contamination related to soiling. However, introducing water into the body cavity may promote bacterial growth during cold storage.