Ensuring Livestock Welfare at Slaughter in the US: Still A Long Way To Go

Abstract

US legislation aimed at protecting livestock welfare at pre-slaughter handling and during slaughter falls far short of being an effective, comprehensive, and modern law. While its implementation several decades ago has resulted in modest improvements and some of the most egregious practices have been outlawed, the legislation's impact remains limited. In addition to its limited scope and scant enforcement, the legislation has not kept up with scientific developments. Further, the legislation raises ethical concerns by failing to appropriately consider the interests of animals in situations in which slaughter without stunning remains allowed. The legislation remains deeply deficient on a number of fronts; much more is needed to ensure livestock welfare at slaughter.