Ostrich meat is gaining attention as a nutritious, sustainable, and delicious alternative to beef, but it’s still surrounded by myths that prevent many from giving it a try. Whether it’s misconceptions about its taste, nutrition, or sustainability, misinformation continues to cloud the truth about this remarkable protein. Today, we’re busting some of the most persistent myths about ostrich meat—so you can decide for yourself why it deserves a spot on your plate!
MYTH #1: OSTRICH TASTES LIKE CHICKEN
Because ostriches are birds, people often assume their meat tastes like poultry. In truth, ostrich meat is a red meat with a flavor closer to grass-fed beef, venison, or bison. It has a mild, slightly sweet taste, a tender texture, and absorbs seasonings and marinades beautifully. If you're a fan of steak, burgers, or roasts, you'll love ostrich.
MYTH #2: OSTRICH MEAT IS GAMEY
Many people associate alternative meats with a strong "gamey" flavor, but ostrich meat is surprisingly mild. Because ostriches are raised with room to roam and fed a clean diet, their meat lacks the intense, wild taste often found in game animals like venison or wild boar. If you enjoy lean red meats like bison, you'll likely find ostrich to be even more palatable.
MYTH #3: OSTRICH MEAT IS ONLY FOR SPECIALITY DISHES
While ostrich is often featured in fine dining menus, it's also perfect for everyday cooking. You can use ground ostrich in burgers, tacos, or meatballs, cook ostrich steaks like you would a filet mignon, or even roast a whole ostrich fan for a hearty family meal. With its versatility and ease of preparation, ostrich is just as convenient as beef or chicken—if not more so!
MYTH #4: OSTRICH MEAT IS DIFFICULT TO COOK
Cooking ostrich meat is easier than you think—especially if you already cook steak or ground beef. Because it’s so lean, ostrich benefits from quick, high-heat cooking for cuts like steaks and burgers, or low-and-slow methods for roasts. As long as you avoid overcooking (keeping it at medium-rare to medium for steaks), ostrich is just as simple to prepare as lean cuts of beef or chicken.
💡 Pro Tip: Cook ostrich steaks like a filet mignon—seared quickly on high heat and served medium-rare for the juiciest, most flavorful experience.
MYTH #5: OSTRICH MEAT IS TOO EXPENSIVE
Ostrich meat may cost more per pound than conventional beef, but its value goes beyond price. Ostrich is a high-quality, nutrient-dense meat that’s lower in fat, higher in protein, and packed with iron and B vitamins—offering more nutrition per bite than many traditional meats.
Plus, with the growing availability of domestically farmed ostrich, prices are becoming more competitive. Buying in bulk or choosing lesser known cuts can make it even more affordable.
MYTH #6: OSTRICH MEAT IS HARD TO BUY
While ostrich meat is not as commonly stocked in stores as other conventional meats, it is still available for purchase. Today, you can purchase premium ostrich meat online and have it delivered directly to your door. Many specialty butchers and even some grocery stores now stock ostrich as well. It’s more accessible than ever!
Check out American Ostrich Farms to explore different cuts and find the best way to bring ostrich to your table.
MYTH #7: EATING OSTRICH IS BAD FOR THE SPECIES
Farm-raised ostriches are sustainably produced—just like cattle, bison, or poultry. Ostrich farming actually helps reduce the pressure on wild populations by providing a responsible and controlled way to meet the demand for ostrich products.
MYTH #8: OSTRICH MEAT IS JUST A GIMMICK
Ostrich is not a novelty—it’s a nutrient-dense, sustainable red meat that rivals beef and bison in both taste and nutrition. With its rich flavor, impressive health benefits, and lower environmental impact, ostrich is a serious contender for the future of meat.
It’s not a passing trend—it’s a smart choice for anyone who values quality, sustainability, and great taste.
If you’ve been holding off on trying ostrich because of outdated myths, now’s the time to experience it for yourself. Whether you’re looking for a leaner alternative to beef, a more sustainable protein source, or simply something new and delicious, ostrich delivers on every level.
