CCTV in slaughterhouses and independent third-party welfare audits have proven effective at identifying welfare breaches and driving systemic improvement in the final phase of animal lives.
CCTV in slaughterhouses represents one of the most evidence-based welfare interventions available for the final phase of farmed animal lives. The case for CCTV is proven: facilities where footage is reviewed regularly show lower welfare breach rates over time. The deterrent effect — knowing that behavior is recorded — improves handling even when active monitoring is not occurring. Independent auditing adds accountability that self-reporting cannot provide. Consumer and retailer demand for welfare assurance at slaughter is growing, and the infrastructure for monitoring exists — what is needed is consistent application and meaningful consequences when breaches are identified.