Animal welfare critical to agriculture

The adherence to animal welfare protocols continues to be a concern, not only in the Namibian farming environment, but worldwide. Since Meatco operates in accordance with the European Union (EU) Animal Health and Welfare Regulations and Protocols, the delivery of stressed animals should be avoided at all costs.According to Meatco, stress in animals cause the suppression of their immune system, resulting in animals being susceptible to diseases such as shipping fever (Pasteurella) and Bovine respiratory disease (BRD). These diseases can be fatal or accrued, depending on the amount of stress exerted on the animal. The microorganisms in the animal multiply due to the suppression of the immune system, resulting in the animal getting sick. Stressors include heat stress, post-weaning stress, cold stress and transportation stress. Animals that are under stress tend to lose their appetite and productivity during production time.Animal welfare refers to treating an animal in the most humane way possible, including handling before and after slaughter and before the final product is packaged, Meatco added. “Animals that have not been well-handled prior to and during transportation, develop a condition called dark firm dry (DFD) meat which is visible by the dark colour caused by an alternation in the pH in the carcass, leading to a favourable environment for the multiplication of microorganisms that affect the shelf-life of the end product.”According to the state veterinarian for the Khomas Region, Dr Israel Kaatura, when an animal is stressed, it releases adrenaline which is responsible for the destruction of the immune system.“The directorate of veterinary services is mandated to educate farmers on good animal welfare practices, which ultimately result in healthy livestock production. Furthermore, we have a mandate to approve trucks suitable for animal transportation.“We also have measures in place at auctions to monitor animal welfare. This includes that the movement of people on the premises is limited and to ensure that the facility makes provision for water troughs should animals be standing for more than two days,” Kaatura added.Meatco's quality assurance technician for animal welfare Tjijamemua Tjeriko says creating awareness, especially amongst communal producers with regard to animal health and welfare-related issues, will ensure that Meatco continues to produce quality beef for our premium markets. STAFF REPORTER

Animal welfare critical to agriculture

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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Animal welfare critical to agriculture

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Namibian Sun 2025-07-07

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