Game

Pheasant

Written by the VitaWhat editorial team · Medically reviewed by Steve Davis · Last reviewed 19 July 2026 · Editorial policy

A lean game bird with darker meat than chicken.

Effect on the body: lean, iron-rich protein that supports muscle and blood; watch for shot fragments.

Benefits

  • Lean protein
  • Iron
  • Selenium
  • B vitamins

Pros

  • Leaner than chicken
  • More iron
  • Wild/free-range

Cons

  • Can be dry (little fat)
  • May contain lead shot
  • Seasonal

Sources & references

  1. WHO — Q&A on red/processed meat
  2. British Nutrition Foundation

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