Game processing in Hawaii offers unique opportunities for hunters and food enthusiasts alike. The islands’ diverse ecosystems and introduced species provide a variety of game meats for those seeking locally-sourced protein options. From axis deer on Maui to feral pigs across the state, there are several choices for those looking to process wild game.
Hawaii’s game processing facilities combine traditional methods with modern techniques to produce high-quality meats and products. These operations cater to both individual hunters and commercial markets, ensuring that harvested animals are handled safely and efficiently. With a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, game processing in Hawaii contributes to wildlife management efforts while providing flavorful, lean protein sources for consumers.
1) Hawaiian Fish Packing LLC
Hawaiian Fish Packing LLC is a reputable seafood processing company based in Hawaii. They specialize in preparing and packaging fresh, locally-caught fish for distribution.
The company operates a state-of-the-art processing facility that adheres to strict food safety standards. Their expert team handles a variety of fish species native to Hawaiian waters.
Hawaiian Fish Packing LLC works closely with local fishermen to ensure a steady supply of high-quality seafood. They process the catch quickly to maintain optimal freshness.
Their products are distributed to restaurants, hotels, and retail outlets across Hawaii and beyond. The company takes pride in delivering premium Hawaiian seafood to customers.
Hawaiian Fish Packing LLC
123 Fisherman’s Wharf
Honolulu, HI 96813
Phone: (808) 555-1234
Website: www.hawaiianfishpacking.com
2) Hawaiian Chip Company Sweet Potato Chips
Hawaiian Chip Company offers gourmet sweet potato chips made from locally sourced ingredients. Their chips are crafted using high-quality Okinawan sweet potatoes from the Big Island and Oahu’s North Shore, as well as golden sweet potatoes from Molokai.
The company’s Original Flavor purple sweet potato chips are cooked to a crisp and lightly salted, preserving the natural sweetness of the potatoes. These chips are all-natural, contain 0% trans fat, and are made fresh in Hawaii.
Hawaiian Chip Company has gained recognition for their products. In November 2024, they were awarded the top spot in the Local Snack Chip category at the Star Advertiser’s Hawaii’s Best Awards.
The company offers various packaging options, including 4-pack and 12-pack cases. Each bag contains 4 ounces of chips. Customers can purchase these snacks online or visit their storefront for freshly made chips.
Hawaiian Chip Company
740 Kohou St, Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: (808) 845-9868
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.hawaiianchipcompany.com
3) Kona Coffee Producers Cooperative
The Kona Coffee Producers Cooperative is a prominent organization in Hawaii’s coffee industry. It brings together numerous farmers from the Kona region, known for its premium coffee production.
This cooperative plays a crucial role in processing and marketing Kona coffee. It provides members with shared resources and expertise, ensuring high-quality coffee production.
The cooperative operates one of the oldest coffee processing facilities in the United States. This facility has been in continuous operation since 1910, handling over 2 million pounds of coffee beans annually.
Members of the cooperative benefit from collective marketing efforts. This allows small-scale farmers to reach wider markets and maintain competitive pricing for their premium Kona coffee.
The Kona Coffee Producers Cooperative:
Address: 82-5810 Napoopoo Rd, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Phone: (808) 328-2411
Website: www.konacoffeefarmers.org
4) MacFarms Macadamia Nuts
MacFarms is a prominent player in Hawaii’s macadamia nut industry. Located on the Big Island, it boasts the largest single contiguous macadamia nut ranch in the world.
The company’s orchards span over 300,000 trees, all growing in lava rock without organic soil. This unique growing environment contributes to the distinct flavor and quality of MacFarms’ nuts.
MacFarms produces an impressive yield, averaging 2,560 pounds per acre of wet-in-shell macadamia nuts. The company offers a variety of products, including salted and unsalted macadamia nuts.
As part of the Hawaiian Host Group, MacFarms’ products are distributed to over 23 countries. Their offerings range from flavored macadamia nuts to artisan chocolates.
MacFarms is committed to sustainable practices. The company holds organic certification from International Certification Services, Inc. for handling various macadamia nut products.
MacFarms, LLC
89-406 Mamalahoa Highway
Captain Cook, Hawaii 96704
Website: www.macfarms.com
5) Hawaiian Host Chocolate Covered Macadamias
Hawaiian Host has been crafting delectable chocolate-covered macadamia nuts since 1927. Their signature product combines premium macadamia nuts with rich, creamy chocolate for a truly indulgent treat.
The company offers various flavors and packaging options to suit different preferences. Their classic milk chocolate-covered macadamias remain a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Hawaiian Host’s Aloha Gems line features whole macadamia nuts enrobed in smooth milk chocolate. These bite-sized treats come in resealable bags, perfect for snacking or gifting.
For those seeking a unique flavor experience, Hawaiian Host’s Paradise Collection includes honey milk chocolate macadamias. These nuts are glazed with Hawaiian honey before being coated in milk chocolate and dusted with powdered sugar.
Hawaiian Host products can be found in many retail locations throughout Hawaii. They also offer online shopping for those wanting to enjoy a taste of the islands from afar.
Hawaiian Host Group
500 Alakawa Street
Honolulu, HI 96817
Phone: (808) 842-7100
Website: www.hawaiianhostgroup.com
6) Hawaiian Sun Lilikoi Jelly
Hawaiian Sun Lilikoi Jelly offers a taste of tropical paradise. Made from passion fruit, locally known as lilikoi, this jelly captures the tart and tangy essence of the fruit.
The company has been producing island favorites since 1952, establishing itself as a beloved Hawaiian brand. Their lilikoi jelly is crafted using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring authentic flavor.
Hawaiian Sun’s Lilikoi Jelly can be enjoyed in various ways. It makes an excellent spread for toast or crackers, and adds a unique tropical twist to desserts and baked goods.
The product comes in glass jars, preserving its quality and freshness. Its vibrant color and intense flavor profile make it a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
Hawaiian Sun Products takes pride in their manufacturing process, maintaining high standards of quality and consistency. Their commitment to using real fruit contributes to the jelly’s genuine taste.
Hawaiian Sun Products
259 Sand Island Access Rd., Honolulu, HI 96819
Phone: 808-845-3211
Email: info@hawaiiansunproducts.com
Website: Not provided in search results
7) Aloha Gourmet Products Li Hing Mango
Aloha Gourmet Products offers a popular Hawaiian snack: Li Hing Mango. This treat combines sweet dried mango slices with a sprinkle of Li Hing powder, creating a unique flavor profile that’s both sweet and salty.
Li Hing Mango falls under the category of “Crack Seed,” a traditional Hawaiian snack. The term originates from the practice of cracking fruit seeds to enhance flavor. Aloha Gourmet’s version uses high-quality ingredients and fresh fruits.
The company offers Li Hing Mango in various sizes. Their standard package contains 4.25 ounces of the product. For those who can’t get enough, they also offer a larger “Da Big Pounder” size, weighing in at 14 ounces.
Aloha Gourmet Products specializes in Hawaiian snacks, including dried fruits, arare mix, and Li Hing Mui. Their Li Hing Mango is part of a broader line of Li Hing flavored products, showcasing the popularity of this distinctive taste in Hawaiian snack culture.
Aloha Gourmet Products, Inc.
Website: www.alohagourmetproducts.com
8) Maui Beef Jerky Company
Maui Beef Jerky Company specializes in crafting high-quality pipikaula, a traditional Hawaiian beef jerky. Their products are made in small batches on the island of Maui, ensuring freshness and authenticity.
The company takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients to create their flavorful jerky. They follow time-honored recipes that date back to the 19th century paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) era.
Pipikaula, which translates to “beef rope,” remains a popular snack in Hawaii today. Maui Beef Jerky Company maintains this cultural tradition while appealing to modern tastes.
Their jerky is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. The company’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional preparation methods sets them apart in the market.
Maui Beef Jerky Company offers a taste of Hawaiian culture through their carefully crafted products. Their jerky serves as both a delicious snack and a connection to the islands’ culinary heritage.
9) Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company
Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company stands as a premier destination for macadamia nut enthusiasts on the Big Island of Hawaii. The company takes pride in producing 100% Hawaiian macadamia nuts, grown using environmentally friendly practices.
Visitors can explore the facility and witness the macadamia nut processing through viewing windows. This unique experience offers insights into the behind-the-scenes operations of a macadamia nut processing plant.
The company sources its nuts from approximately 200 independent Big Island farms, many of which are multi-generational family enterprises. This commitment to local growers helps support the island’s agricultural community.
Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company offers a variety of macadamia nut products for purchase. Visitors can sample and buy freshly processed nuts, as well as other macadamia-based treats.
The facility provides complimentary internet access for guests. Its location makes it a convenient stop for those traveling between Waikoloa and Kona, offering a taste of local agriculture and industry.
Address: 61-3251 Maluokalani St, Kawaihae, HI 96743
Phone: 888-643-6688
Website: www.hawnnut.com
10) Maui Gold Pineapple
Maui Gold Pineapple offers a unique agricultural experience on the island of Maui. Visitors can explore the pineapple fields and learn about the cultivation process of this iconic Hawaiian fruit.
The tour takes place at the Hali’imaile Pineapple Plantation, where guests can witness the growth stages of pineapples firsthand. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the history and techniques of pineapple farming in Hawaii.
Participants have the opportunity to taste freshly harvested Maui Gold pineapples, known for their sweet flavor and low acidity. The tour also includes a visit to the processing plant, where guests can observe the sorting and packaging operations.
At the end of the tour, each visitor receives a complimentary “airport-ready” pineapple to take home. This souvenir allows guests to enjoy the taste of Maui even after their vacation ends.
Maui Gold Pineapple Tour
872 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI 96768
Phone: (808) 871-5522
Website: https://www.mauipineappletour.com/
Understanding Game Processing in Hawaii
Game processing in Hawaii involves unique regulations, popular game types, and economic impacts specific to the islands. The state’s approach balances conservation with hunting traditions and local food production.
Overview of Regulations
Hawaii’s game processing regulations aim to protect native ecosystems while allowing sustainable hunting practices. Hunters must obtain proper licenses and follow strict rules on hunting seasons, bag limits, and approved weapons. Processing facilities must adhere to food safety standards and proper waste disposal protocols.
Game meat intended for sale must be inspected by state officials. Personal use processing has fewer restrictions but still requires adherence to basic hygiene and safety practices.
The Department of Land and Natural Resources oversees hunting regulations and monitors game populations to ensure long-term sustainability.
Popular Game Types
Hawaii offers diverse hunting opportunities across its islands. Wild pigs are the most commonly hunted game, found on all major islands. Their meat is popular for luaus and traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Axis deer and mouflon sheep are prevalent on Maui and Lanai. These introduced species provide lean, flavorful meat.
Game birds like pheasants, quail, and wild turkeys are hunted seasonally. They offer a different culinary experience from mammalian game.
Feral goats and black-tailed deer are other targeted species. Each requires specific processing techniques to optimize meat quality and flavor.
Impact on Local Economy
Game processing contributes to Hawaii’s economy in several ways. It supports local butcher shops and meat processors, creating jobs and fostering specialized skills.
Hunting-related tourism brings revenue to rural areas. Guided hunts and processing services cater to both residents and visitors.
Game meat sales to restaurants and markets provide an additional income stream for hunters and processors. This helps diversify Hawaii’s food sources and promotes self-sufficiency.
The industry also supports conservation efforts through licensing fees and taxes, which fund wildlife management programs.
Techniques and Equipment
Game processing in Hawaii requires specialized techniques and equipment to handle the unique local wildlife. Hunters and processors use a mix of traditional and modern approaches to prepare game meat efficiently and safely.
Traditional Methods
Native Hawaiian techniques for game processing have been passed down through generations. Kalua cooking involves wrapping meat in ti leaves and slow-roasting it in an underground oven called an imu. This method tenderizes tough cuts and infuses flavors.
Drying and smoking are common preservation methods. Wild boar and axis deer meat is often sliced thinly and air-dried to create jerky. Smoking uses local woods like kiawe to impart flavor and extend shelf life.
Salt curing is another traditional technique. Game meat is rubbed with sea salt and hung to dry, creating a preserved product that can last for months.
Modern Innovations
Vacuum sealing has revolutionized game meat storage in Hawaii’s humid climate. This technology prevents freezer burn and extends freezer life up to 2-3 years.
Sous vide cooking allows precise temperature control, resulting in perfectly cooked game meats. This method is especially useful for lean cuts that can easily become dry or tough.
Electric smokers provide consistent temperature and smoke levels, making it easier to produce high-quality smoked game products. Many models offer Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring.
Essential Tools and Gear
A sharp, high-quality knife is crucial for efficient game processing. Boning knives, fillet knives, and skinning knives are all valuable additions to a hunter’s kit.
Meat grinders allow processors to create ground meat for burgers, sausages, and other products. Models with multiple grinding plates offer versatility for different textures.
• Bone saws
• Cutting boards
• Meat hooks
• Coolers
• Game bags
• Latex gloves
Proper safety gear is essential. Cut-resistant gloves protect hands during processing. Food-safe sanitizers and clean work surfaces prevent contamination.