Unless you are describing a taste like the plants in question, can be those plants. Milkweed can make them more bitter, verses alpha. If you are noticing an almost musky taste and smell and they had their balls (male) bad cut causes that funk if the gland gets cut. Almost any bad cut while gutting can render parts of the meat worthless if contaminated by urine/shit/ or bowel. A good butcher will make or break your investment. Usually home beef is much better taste/texture/quality.