A Perthshire farmer has launched what is believed to be the world’s first social enterprise butcher’s shop, as part of a wider effort to make greater use of venison from necessary deer culls.
Helen Stewart established Fair Feast after taking over Knockbarry Farm, where deer numbers had risen to around 650 animals — a density significantly above recommended levels. With no natural predators, culling was required, but Stewart identified a disconnect between surplus venison and growing demand for affordable protein.
The project now processes culled deer into sausages, mince, burgers and meatballs for distribution through food banks and community larders, while premium cuts are sold to local restaurants to support the operation commercially.
In its first year, Fair Feast supplied around two tonnes of venison, equating to approximately 20,000 meals across Highland Perthshire. The initiative has received support from the Cairngorms 2030 programme, backed by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
The opening of a dedicated shop is intended to provide a more consistent revenue stream, while helping ensure surplus venison can be distributed throughout the year.
“Food banks are at an all-time high for demand,” Stewart said. “Sometimes we are dropping off 100 packs of venison, and it feels like a drop in the ocean. If we can donate tens of thousands of meals from just one farm, imagine what could happen if that was rolled out across Scotland.”
For the trade, the project highlights the potential for stronger market development around venison, particularly as deer management requirements increase across parts of the UK.
With cull targets under ongoing scrutiny, initiatives that create sustainable demand for venison could play a role in supporting both land management objectives and the wider shooting economy, including stalking activity and associated equipment sales.
GET IN TOUCH
www.fairfeast.co.uk