Martini Geese in Local Gastronomy Mostly from Abroad

In 2024, the consumption of goose meat in Austria amounted to around 930 tons, which is roughly one dish per person. Only about a third of the geese come from Austrian production. In gastronomy, imported goose meat accounts for 70 to 80 percent, mainly due to price differences.

Martini Geese: No Austrian Goose Without Outdoor Access

"In goose fattening, Austria takes an absolute pioneering role. Nevertheless, thousands of imported geese end up on our plates every year - from farming practices that are not even allowed here. Most guests don't even know what they are actually eating. We finally need mandatory origin labeling, also for gastronomy," says Hannes Royer, founder of the association "Land schafft Leben."

In Austria, there are strict animal husbandry standards: according to regulations, geese require access to the outdoors, and a maximum of 21 kilograms of geese per square meter is allowed in the barn. This corresponds to four to five geese depending on weight. More space reduces stress and disease pressure and promotes animal health. Antibiotics are only allowed in case of illness, and a waiting period between treatment and slaughter prevents residues in the meat.

"One can imagine how the animals are kept in other countries. The big question should be: Where does what is on my plate come from? And how much are animal welfare, higher production standards, and Austrian agriculture worth to me? Especially in terms of animal welfare, opting for regional meat pays off," says Royer.

Animal Welfare of Geese Influences the Price

The origin of a food product and the way it is produced are reflected in the price. Additional costs arising from stricter regulations on goose husbandry in Austria mean that Austrian meat is hard to compete with foreign meat from cheaper farming practices in terms of price. This year, domestic organic geese cost around 17 to 25 euros per kilogram upwards, while conventional geese from Austria are available from around 14 euros per kilogram. In comparison, the price per kilogram for conventionally imported goods is eight to ten euros.

(Red)

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