Arkansas Hunters Ed Practice Exam

What should you do immediately after harvesting game meat?

1. Let it sit at room temperature

2. Rinse it with hot water

3. Cool it down and clean it properly

4. Store it in the sun to dry

The correct answer is: Cool it down and clean it properly

After harvesting game meat, the appropriate action is to cool it down and clean it properly. This step is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of the meat. Cooling the meat rapidly prevents the growth of bacteria that can spoil the meat or cause foodborne illnesses. Proper cleaning involves dressing the animal correctly and ensuring that the meat is handled in a sanitary manner to reduce the risk of contamination. Allowing the meat to sit at room temperature can promote bacterial growth, and rinsing it with hot water may not be effective in removing contaminants while also potentially cooking the meat surface. Storing meat in the sun to dry is also not advisable, as it can lead to spoilage and attract pests. Therefore, the correct procedure after harvesting is to ensure that the meat is cooled and cleaned properly to preserve its quality and ensure it is safe to eat.