Invasive wild boar are becoming a huge problem in as many as 35 of the 50 United States. They are also problem overseas in both Italy and Japan. Although not invasive to Japan or Italy feral hogs have become a problem in urban areas in both countries.
Human dietary habits are now being enlisted to help reduce the problem. According to The Cool Down, wild pig is being featured on more restaurant menus. Adventurous chefs are seeking to cook the wily predators to lessen the damage.
According to the Cool Down:
“Chefs in the United States are bringing wild boar to a fresh set of palates, and their practical introduction of the protein could prevent billions of dollars’ worth of damages.
As detailed by the Guardian, more than six million of the feral pigs roam the United States after being brought over by Christopher Columbus in 1493.
Chef Jesse Griffiths, co-owner of Austin, Texas, restaurant Dai Due, told the outlet that incorporating the game meat into his menu was a no-brainer.
“I think it’s a real easy equation: They’re invasive, they need to be removed,” he said. “The argument for a lot of other game species we eat isn’t as strong, but it is pretty glaring when it comes to hogs.” (Links in original.)The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) estimates wild pigs cause $2.5 billion in damage in the United States. According to the Guardian the agency is now more supportive of bringing invasive wild boar to the restaurant table.
There are other issues with wild hogs. Canadian experimented with breeding a “super pig.” Some of the experimental hogs escaped. The hybrid pigs are better adapted to cold and are causing concern in the northern United States.