Christmas goose despite avian influenza: tips and safety for buyers!

Christmas goose despite avian influenza: tips and safety for buyers!

What will become of the popular Christmas goose this year? In times of avian influenza, one could be justifiably worried. But despite the tense situation caused by the virus, the Christmas goose remains a highly sought-after dish. Loud NDR Both availability and pricing are at the same level as the previous year. In the Schleswig-Holstein region, where around 2,000 geese are kept at the Dithmarscher Gänsemarkt in Gudendorf, buyers are not particularly worried.

The farm operator Martje Anders reports that her business has not yet been affected by bird flu. However, strict hygiene measures apply to minimize the risk of infection. According to current information, sales of Christmas geese in Schleswig-Holstein remain stable, although some goose farmers have slaughtered earlier for fear of infection, which could limit the availability of fresh geese.

Prices and security precautions

Speaking of prices: The geese from German farms are still available at stable prices of 18 to 22 euros per kilogram. In comparison, imported geese from Poland can be up to 120 percent more expensive. The risk of infection via geese is extremely low, as the virus only causes infections in humans under special conditions. Poultry from affected flocks is inedible, but healthy meat can be eaten safely if it is sufficiently heated.

Demand for frozen geese is high and frozen goods are expected to be plentiful this year too. After all, shock-frozen geese can last up to two years at -18 degrees. In a conversation with a restaurateur from Hamburg who shares the difficulties of sourcing high-quality poultry, it becomes clear that it is becoming increasingly challenging for restaurants and catering establishments to secure the desired quantities of geese. Katja Nielsen from the Rexrodt restaurant complains that the market is now empty and the difficulties in obtaining fresh geese are becoming ever greater.

Recommendations for buyers

Given the current situation and the possible shortage of fresh geese, the experts recommend placing pre-orders for goose and duck for Christmas. It is to be expected that supply will be lower, especially before the holidays. Hamburg consumer protection also recommends considering alternatives such as free-range ducks and turkeys in order to remain flexible.

All in all, despite the avian influenza, there are still extensive opportunities for Christmas goose lovers in 2025, as long as you get enough information and preparation in advance. Information about the current avian influenza situation and tips for purchasing a Christmas goose can be found online, for example on the website of Consumer Protection Forum or that GenussGuide Hamburg.