Investigation Reveals Food Safety Issues in Australia's Kangaroo Meat Industry

Government records obtained under Australia’s Freedom of Information Act indicate that in 2025, meat samples from an EU-approved facility tested at levels of bacterial contamination up to 340,000 colony-forming units per square centimeter, exceeding the European Union's acceptable limit by ten times. These contaminated products were allowed to be exported without any corrective measures, while failed meat products were downgraded and sold domestically.

Wayne Pacelle, president of the Center for a Humane Economy and Animal Wellness Action, stated, "Australia’s government is subsidizing the kangaroo bushmeat trade, showing complete disregard for food safety standards, and putting people and pets at risk." He emphasized that no nation should accept such standards.

The report further highlights a troubling connection between the kangaroo meat and greyhound racing industries. As demand for kangaroo skins and meat has declined, the remains have increasingly become a low-cost feed for racing greyhounds. Ray Borda, head of Australia’s largest kangaroo meat export company and a long-time greyhound owner, was identified as a key figure linking the two sectors.

Christine Dorchak, president of GREY2K USA Worldwide, remarked on the alliance formed between kangaroo shooters and dog racers operating on tight margins, urging for the end of the greyhound racing industry.

Key findings from the investigation include:

- Kangaroo meat exports have dropped 86% since their peak in the early 2000s, with skin prices plummeting 98%, largely due to international brands halting their purchase.

- Approximately 50% of kangaroo carcasses are found to contain Salmonella, and the industry uses lead ammunition, which contaminates meat and wildlife.

- Between 30-40% of kangaroos are reportedly not killed humanely, leading to prolonged suffering of the animals.

- Belgium is noted as accounting for over half of the EU's kangaroo meat imports and the majority of its pet food market.

- The industry’s claimed economic importance is contradicted by Australian government data, which reported total meat export earnings of just AUD 10.9 million in 2025.

Georgie Purcell, a member of the Victorian Parliament and advocate for wildlife protection, expressed concern over the risks posed by the kangaroo meat industry, urging countries to reconsider their import agreements. The report also calls on regulatory authorities in the U.S. and Europe to declare kangaroo meat unsafe for sale.