This is not just any pheasant...this is M&S pheasant

A press release issued today, 21st Feb 2022, by British Game Assurance, reveals that the upmarket supermarket chain Marks & Spencer will stock BGA-assured lead-free game. The news follows the annual Agent's Symposium last week, which saw sporting agents from around the UK, plus GunsOnPegs, attend a conference hosted by James Purdey & Son. The video recording of the conference can be viewed here, or listened to on the BGA's new podcast.

The press release reveals that at the Symposium, which took place on 8th February at Royal Berkshire Shooting School, it was made clear that "all meats have in-country, independently-certified Standards, and from now on M&S would expect to see game assured in the same way." It adds that the BGA is now calling upon shoots that wish to supply M&S should register for assurance and make the transition away from lead ammunition.

Although the precise volume of game that M&S plan to take is unknown, GunsOnPegs understands that it will be a significant quantity. 

BGA CEO Liam Stokes said this is a landmark moment for the game meat market:

“M&S has told the shooting world that they want to be the frontrunner in sourcing sustainable, British game, and that means insisting on BGA-certification as well as lead-free. We as a shooting community now need to rise to that challenge.

A page on Marks and Spencer's corporate site states their committment to sustainably and ethically sourced game, stating :

Game is growing in popularity as an alternative to more traditional everyday meats. Its value for money, versatility and nutritional benefits (e.g. it’s low in fat and rich in iron) have helped maintain this popularity. Game birds and ground game (e.g. rabbit) are free range and eat a natural foraged diet. Game also makes an important contribution to the livelihoods of remote rural communities and the local food system.

Management of game estates is essential in helping preserving the countryside and enhances biodiversity.

However, the website goes on to highlight concerns regarding stocking density, hygiene and raptor persection. BGA assurnace is designed to give retailers like M&S confidence that the estates from which they source their game are run in accordance with best practice, from egg-to-plate. 

The Marks and Spencer website continues: "We are committed to offering a range of game for our customers when in season. Our offer currently includes pheasant, red legged partridge, rabbit and wood pigeon."