Abstract
This study compared normal post-Jarvis stun/kill responses and carcass quality with those occurring when crush restraint was not used during pre-slaughter. The carcasses of 1065 cattle slaughtered during one week at a commercial abattoir were evaluated for quality. The post-stun/kill responses of 788 of these animals were also assessed. An additional study of data from the carcasses of 6061 cattlewas further evaluated for quality findings. A significant reduction in post-stun/kill limb movement, muscle tone and the expression of brainstem functions was recorded when restraint was not used. Abolishing crush restraint pre-slaughter also produced a significant reduction in the incidence of blood splash. In addition, the study also showed that animal identification post slaughter could be successfully implemented with no negative consequences to food safety or traceability. It is suggested that abolishing the use of pre-slaughter crush restraint of cattle would enhance animal welfare and operator safety in plants whether electrical, or mechanical stunning was employed.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 104-108 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Meat Science |
Volume | 107 |
Early online date | 17 Apr 2015 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Sept 2015 |
Bibliographical note
Date of Acceptance: 17/04/2015Keywords
- Animal welfare
- Brainstem functions
- Carcass quality cattle
- Crush restraint
- Electrical stunning