Ostrich meat proves successful in Europe for South African firm

South African farming business Klein Karoo has seen strong sales of its new ostrich meat products across Europe.

The company, which has been rolling out the new lines at supermarkets in France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland and Scandinavia, said it hopes to develop further European listings.

Johan Stumpf, managing director at Klein Karoo International, said the growth was the result of shoppers becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of ostrich meat.

"Ostrich has less fat, calories and cholesterol than chicken, so it makes an incredibly healthy alternative red meat," he said.

"There has been a rush of interest in ostrich meat in this and other European markets, as consumers focus on making healthier choices when they buy food.

"These new products are selling extremely well; we’ve seen some stores selling out within a few days."

The company currently supplies ostrich fillets, steaks, cubes, strips and burgers.