AMI, Temple Grandin release video on humane slaughter

The American Meat Institute and animal handling expert Temple Grandin have released a video that depicts and explains the cattle slaughter process at a large (unnamed) plant. While its release coincides with this week’s temporary closure of Hanford, Calif.-based Central Valley Meat over human handling concerns, the video has been in the works for some time, explained AMI Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Professional Development Janet Riley in a blog that includes the embedded video. "In the video, Dr. Grandin talks about many aspects of handling and slaughter and she specifically explains that after animals are stunned to make them unconscious prior to slaughter, a step that is required by law, it is normal to see some uncoordinated movement, especially of the unrestrained rear leg. She notes that this does not mean that an animal is conscious, and much research will support this," writes Riley.  Read More