Slovakia Allows Sale of Bear Meat Amid Rising Attacks
Slovakia has become the first EU country to approve the commercial sale of brown bear meat, despite the species being protected under European law.
The government recently authorized the culling of up to 300 brown bears — roughly a quarter of the national population — following a fatal bear attack. The move sparked backlash from environmental groups and EU politicians.
In response, authorities announced that meat from culled bears would not go to waste and could be sold to the public under strict hygienic and legal controls. The Ministry of Environment will begin distribution through official agencies next week.
Prime Minister Robert Fico defended the decision, stating: “We cannot live in a country where people are afraid to enter forests.”
Slovakia ranks second in Europe after Romania for the number of bear attacks, with 54 incidents recorded between 2000 and 2020. Annual attacks have now risen to around 10.
According to EU regulations, all bear meat must be tested for trichinella larvae before sale, as freezing, smoking, or drying does not eliminate the parasite.
