LPT 312: Abattoir Practices and Animal Products Technology (1+1)

INSPECTION FACILITIES

• Adequate identification of the live animal is a legal requirement and is essential for farm use for accurate disease information and for identifying the carcass after slaughter for proper payment to the producers for the correct carcass, etc.
• Among the many recommendations is the need for care in the marking of animals, and the avoidance of unnecessary pain and distress.
• Many different forms of identification exist including metal, plastic or nylon ear tags; ear tattoos; neck, tail and leg brands; freeze brands; and marking aerosols and paints for cattle, some of which are also use for sheep and pigs.
• Now-a-days electronic identification and temperature monitoring of animals for the purpose of herd management and disease control through improved trace-back are also in practice. 
• The system combines a substantially implanted transponder having a temperature measuring capability, several digits of identification, an interrogator receiver and a data-logging device and will eventually be linked with a computer to handle the large volumes of information.
• Animals that are designated for slaughter must be accompanied by adequate documentation, which along with individual identification, is utilized in the elaboration of the slaughter programme.
• Ante-mortem facilities must also include properly designed and well-lighted large pens, which must possess an isolation pen and a crush for examination of individual animals.
• Assistant staff, competent in the handling of livestock, is also necessary components of an efficient veterinary ante-mortem service.