Possums

Arboreal marsupials of Australia, most belonging to the Petauridae family, now viewed with fresh eyes as a potential farmed meat in New Zealand. Harvested brush-tail possums, Trichosurus vulpecula, generally between one and five years of age, yield carcasses notably rich in lean muscle yet low in fat, a composition that appeals to health-conscious game-meat markets. When the meat is cooked through it presents a mild, dark flavor suited to slow braises and curries. Any commercial trade must meet game-meat hygiene rules covering humane harvest, field dressing, chilling, and inspection.