Can You Eat a Possum?: The Pros and Cons

Can You Eat a Possum?

The possum is a curious creature that is often seen as a pest. But did you know that possums are also edible? In fact, possum meat is considered a delicacy in some cultures.

So, is it safe to eat a possum? The answer is yes, but there are a few things you should know before you chow down on one of these furry marsupials.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at possum meat, including its nutritional value, safety, and taste. We’ll also provide some tips on how to cook possum meat so that it’s safe and delicious.

So, if you’re ever feeling adventurous, give possum meat a try! You might just be surprised at how good it is.

Can You Eat A Possum?	Yes	No
Scientific name	Didelphis virginiana	–
Kingdom	Animalia	–
Phylum	Chordata	–
Class	Mammalia	–
Order	Didelphimorphia	–
Family	Didelphidae	–
Genus	Didelphis	–
Species	Didelphis virginiana	–

History of Possum Consumption

Possums have been eaten by humans for centuries. The earliest evidence of possum consumption dates back to the Pleistocene epoch, when possums were hunted by Indigenous Australians. Possums were also eaten by early European settlers in Australia, who found them to be a tasty and nutritious source of food.

In the 19th century, possums were commercially farmed in Australia and New Zealand. Possum meat was sold in cans and jars, and it was also used to make sausages, pies, and other dishes. However, the possum farming industry declined in the 20th century due to a number of factors, including the of new predators, such as foxes and cats, and the competition from other farmed animals, such as chickens and pigs.

Today, possums are still eaten by some people in Australia and New Zealand, but they are not a common food item. Possum meat is considered to be a delicacy, and it is often sold at high prices.

Nutritional Value of Possum

Possum meat is a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in fat and cholesterol. A 100-gram serving of possum meat contains the following nutrients:

• Protein: 21 grams
• Fat: 5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin B12: 15% of the DV
• Iron: 15% of the DV
• Zinc: 10% of the DV

Possum meat is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health.

Possums have been eaten by humans for centuries, and they are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, possums are not a common food item in most parts of the world.

Safety of Eating Possum

Possums are generally considered to be safe to eat, but there are some risks associated with consuming them. Possums can carry diseases such as rabies and tularemia, and they may also be contaminated with parasites. However, these risks can be minimized by cooking possums thoroughly and avoiding eating their organs.

When cooked properly, possum meat is a healthy and nutritious source of protein. It is low in fat and cholesterol, and it is a good source of vitamins and minerals. Possum meat can be prepared in a variety of ways, including frying, baking, and grilling.

Here are some tips for safely eating possum:

• Cook possums thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Avoid eating the organs of possums, as they are more likely to be contaminated with parasites.
• Wash your hands and utensils thoroughly after handling possum meat.

If you are pregnant, nursing, or have a weakened immune system, you should avoid eating possum meat.

Legality of Eating Possum

The legality of eating possum varies from state to state. In some states, it is illegal to hunt or trap possums, while in other states, it is legal to do so. In some states, it is legal to eat possums, while in other states, it is illegal.

It is important to check the laws in your state before hunting or trapping possums. If you are caught hunting or trapping possums illegally, you could be fined or even jailed.

Here are some links to the hunting and trapping laws for possums in different states:

• [California](https://www.wildlife.ca.gov/hunting/regulations/mammals/opossum)
• [Colorado](https://cpw.state.co.us/Documents/Hunting/Regulations/2023_Hunting_Regulations.pdfpage=132)
• [Florida](https://myfwc.com/hunting/regulations/mammals/opossum/)
• [Georgia](https://georgiawildlife.com/hunting/regulations/mammals/opossum)
• [Illinois](https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/hunting/Documents/2022_Hunting_Regulations.pdfpage=33)
• [Indiana](https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/2627.htm)
• [Iowa](https://www.iowadnr.gov/Portals/idnr/uploads/documents/hunting/2023-24_Hunting_and_Trapping_Regulations.pdfpage=48)
• [Kansas](https://www.ksoutdoors.com/Documents/Hunting/2023-24_Hunting_Regulations_Book.pdfpage=77)
• [Kentucky](https://fw.ky.gov/Hunting/Documents/2023-24_Hunting_Regulations.pdfpage=41)
• [Louisiana](https://www.wlf.louisiana.gov/page/2023-24-hunting-regulations)
• [Maine](https://www.maine.gov/ifw/hunting/regulations/mammals/opossum.html)
• [Maryland](https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/Pages/hunting/regulations/2023-24_Hunting_Regulations_Book.pdfpage=64)
• [Massachusetts](https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-2024-hunting-and-trapping-digest/download)
• [Michigan](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10369_11278-22960–,00.html)
• [Minnesota](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/mammals/opossum/)
• [Mississippi](https://www.mdwfp.com/hunting/regulations/2023-24-hunting-regulations.pdfpage=27)
• [Missouri](https://mdc.mo.gov/hunting-and-trapping/regulations/2023-hunting-trapping-regulationsmammals)
• [Montana](https://fwp.mt.gov/hunting/regulations/mammals/opossum)

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  Possums are not typically considered to be a food source for humans, but there are some cultures that do eat them. Possums are a good source of protein and other nutrients, but they can also carry diseases that can be harmful to humans. It is important to cook possums thoroughly to kill any bacteria or parasites that may be present. If you are considering eating a possum, it is important to do so with caution and to make sure that the possum has been properly cooked.