Official veterinarian presence and inspection at slaughter plants provides welfare oversight at the most critical point in the livestock production cycle.
Slaughter plant welfare oversight is the final backstop in the welfare assurance system. OVs who identify welfare problems ante-mortem can prevent animals from being slaughtered in poor condition. CCTV footage review provides additional evidence for welfare investigations. Adequate OV staffing, appropriate powers of intervention, and transparent reporting of welfare findings maintain the integrity of welfare assurance at this critical welfare point.