EFSA Proposes Animal Welfare Measures in Poultry Slaughter

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a scientific opinion on animal welfare considerations during the slaughter of poultry for food. The opinion provides a “comprehensive overview” of “the entire slaughter process from arrival and unloading of birds through stunning to bleeding and killing.” The opinion also identifies hazards that “give rise to welfare issues—such as pain, thirst, hunger or restricted movement—and proposes preventive and corrective measures where possible.” Many of the identified hazards relate to the lack of training in personnel; the “advice highlights the importance of staff being adequately trained in the different phases of slaughter and for clear identification of roles and responsibilities.”

The press release notes that EFSA will publish further opinions on animal welfare in slaughter for pigs, cattle and other species in 2020.