https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4737-1867
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Abstract
During transport from farms to abattoirs, animals may be subjected to un-favorable conditions leading to a compromise of animal welfare and reduced meat quality. The impact of pre-slaughter handling and transportation on animal welfare and beef quality was investigated in relation to Dendi and Welmara districts markets and abattoirs. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to gather detailed information on the pre-, during-, and post-slaughter processes from 200 respondents. 70 meat swab samples were collected from desirable animal parts to determine the microbial load, and 100 beef samples were used to evaluate the pH value. The majority of animals (55.9%) were transported via trekking, with 70% not receiving feed or water during transportation. Approximately 47% of beef was classified as Dark, Firm, and Dry (DFD) and was spoiled with microbial growth. The pH value of the meat was significantly affected by the distance traveled during transportation and the mode of transportation (P = 0.001). The mean log of the bacterial count of the sampled meat was 5.84-CFU log/100cm2, with the mean microbial load being statistically different (P < 0.05). Our findings suggest that animal welfare and beef quality were compromised due to stressful transportation, pre- and post-slaughter procedures, lack of facilities in marketing areas, and a poor abattoir system. Therefore, it is vitally necessary to issue relevant declarations, and legislation, and provide training on animal welfare awareness to various stakeholders.
REVIEWING EDITOR:
Author contributions
A.B. designed the study, advised methodology, collected data, T.T. advised methodology, conducted analysis, original draft. A.B. and T.T. provided editing and review of the manuscript. All authors contributed to the article and approved the submitted version.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Ethical considerations
The study protocol was reviewed by Ambo University Research and Ethical Committee. The nature of the study was fully explained to the study participants to obtain their oral informed consent before participation in the research, and the data was kept confidential.
Additional information
Notes on contributors
Amanuel Bekuma
Amanuel Bekuma is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Animal Science at Mattu University. He holds a master of science in animal production. He also has five peer-reviewed journals. His research interests include animal husbandry, Poultry science, and meat science and technology.
Tekalign Tadesse
Tekalign Tadesse is a lecturer and researcher in the Department of Veterinary Science at Mattu University. He is an assistant professor of tropical and infectious diseases who currently has publications in peer-reviewed journals. His research interests include livestock health management, infectious diseases, zoonoses, and antimicrobial resistance.