Grilling Season Has Arrived in Wisconsin

It’s officially grilling season here in the Northland, and that means we’re all ready to fire up the BBQ and make the most of the short summer months ahead.

Spring and summer fly by fast, so it’s no surprise we’ll be out grilling as often as possible while the weather’s warm.

That got me wondering—are there actually things you’re not allowed to grill around here? Personally, I’m a pretty picky eater, so I don’t really face that dilemma.

But for those who are adventurous and open to trying just about anything on the grill, I decided to dig a little deeper.

Grilling Is a Wisconsin Way of Life

In Wisconsin, grilling isn’t just a seasonal activity—it’s a way of life. During the pandemic, grilling became a new hobby for many across the country, leading to a boom in grill sales.

A few years later, the trend leveled off, but in Wisconsin, it never went away. Grilling is more than a hobby—it’s a summer tradition.

Think Twice Before Grilling These in Wisconsin

If you like to get creative with your BBQ menu, it’s a good idea to know what’s actually legal to grill in Wisconsin. Some of the items on this list are downright stomach-turning.

While a few people might find these things appealing, others (like me!) will happily stick to classics like burgers. Check out this list before your next cookout—you might be surprised by what’s off-limits.

Are You a Picky Eater? Then This List Will Be an Easy One!

Consider this your “the more you know” moment—because there are 13 foods you’re legally not allowed to toss on the grill in Wisconsin.

1. Haggis

Let’s be honest, most of us probably aren’t craving grilled haggis anyway. This dish has been banned from import into the U.S. since 1971 because it contains sheep lungs. We’re happy to sit this one out.

2. Horse Meat

Grilling horse meat is a no-go if the animal was slaughtered for human consumption. Oddly enough, eating horse meat itself isn’t illegal—you just can’t prepare it that way legally.

3. Dogs

The 2018 Farm Bill officially banned the slaughter of dogs for food. No grilling dogs—ever.

4. Cats

Similar to the rule for dogs, it’s also illegal to consume or BBQ cats. These animals are off-limits under the same legislation.

5. Shark Fin

While shark meat is legal in some parts of the U.S., shark fins are not. They’re banned due to animal cruelty concerns tied to shark finning practices.

6. Japanese Puffer Fish

This exotic delicacy requires a highly specialized license to prepare safely—and if you don’t have it, you shouldn’t even think about grilling it.

7. Owl

Owls are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, making it illegal to consume or cook them in Wisconsin.

8. Sea Turtle

Protected by the Endangered Species Act of 1973, sea turtles are strictly off the menu.

9. Robin

Robins also fall under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Unless you’ve been granted a rare permit, grilling them is not allowed.

10. Whale

Whale meat is off-limits throughout the United States. It’s banned for both ethical and environmental reasons.

11. Loon

These beautiful birds are protected at both the state and federal levels—and besides, most agree they aren’t exactly tasty.

12. Bat

Bat meat can carry dangerous diseases, which is why it’s banned across the U.S. Definitely not something to grill!

13. Ortolan

These tiny birds are considered endangered and are illegal to hunt or consume in many places, including Wisconsin.

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