USDA issues humane handling materials for small plants
Meatingplace.com - March 6, 2009

USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service said it is offering a free DVD and companion booklet titled, "Humane Handling of Livestock with Dr. Temple Grandin" to help small and very small establishments avoid the pitfalls of noncompliance.

The booklet explains the four key elements of the approach FSIS recommends, which includes treating livestock in ways that minimizes excitement, discomfort and accidental injury. It is paired with an existing DVD that has been issued before.

The booklet also gives examples of types of observations FSIS inspectors make to ensure compliance with the Humane Methods of Slaughter Act and with good commercial practices. A list of research publications and a checklist for humane livestock handling are provided at the end of the booklet.

Dr. Temple Grandin, a world-renowned expert in humane handling methods, presents the information in the DVD, which includes a Spanish version of the presentation.

Grandin provides guidelines to help improve humane handling practices and discusses the scoring system she developed for objectively evaluating animal handling and stunning. She also describes five critical control points to follow to ensure humane handling. Grandin demonstrates humane stunning; shows how to make sure the animals are insensible; explains vocalization; and explains methods of moving animals effectively.

The DVD and companion booklet can be ordered from FSIS online.