FoodSafety.gov: cook venison and rabbit, wild or farm-raised, to 160°F (71°C). Missouri Extension applies 160°F to venison steaks, roasts and ground meat; game birds need 165°F.
- USDA safe minimum
- 160°F71°C internal temperature
- Rest time
- NoneNo rest required
- In Celsius
- 71°CSame safe minimum
- Check with
- ProbeA food thermometer, not color
Safe minimums from USDA FSIS and FoodSafety.gov. Checked .
Safe temperature for venison
FoodSafety.gov: cook venison and rabbit, wild or farm-raised, to 160°F (71°C). Missouri Extension applies 160°F to venison steaks, roasts and ground meat; game birds need 165°F.
Where to put the thermometer
Insert into the thickest part of the steak or roast, or the center of a patty.
Questions people ask
Can venison be eaten medium rare?
Many hunters do, but FoodSafety.gov's guidance for venison is 160°F, so rarer venison is below that recommendation.
What temp should wild game birds be cooked to?
165°F, the same as other poultry (NDSU Extension, USDA).