Saving Your Game Meat: How Leaving It in the Cold Can Ruin Your Hunt

As the internal organs cool down, gasses are created. If they have no vent to escape from, it will definitely affect the flavor of the meat. I always immediately open the cavity a few inches right below the breast bone to vent those off. Especially if I’m not able to completely dress the whole animal or bird. Wash it really well and then Try cooking a little. The smell will tell you if it penetrated enough to taint the meat.