The slaughter process is among the most welfare-critical moments in a farm animal life. Effective stunning, calm handling, and minimal pre-slaughter stress are essential for humane outcomes.
The final hours and minutes before slaughter profoundly affect both animal welfare and product quality. Well-designed lairage with appropriate lighting, space, and handling reduces fear and stress. Effective stunning must render animals instantaneously insensible. CCTV monitoring has demonstrated clear welfare improvements in facilities where it is implemented. Continuous improvement in slaughter welfare is achievable through training, facility design, and monitoring.