Stunning change in killing

Press, 1 September 1977, Page 3

Stunning change in killing

PA Wellington New Zealand freezing companies slaughtering sheep for export to the E.E.C. will be faced with paying about $300,000 each to install more humane killing equipment — and they are seeking Government aid.

The Freezing Companies Association said yesterday that the new system had been brought about largely by an S.P.C.A. approach to British meat authorities who, with their E.E.C. partners, had subsequently enforced their requirement.

The new equipment will consist of an automatic stunner which knocks the animal unconscious, after which a stab cut is made through its I throat to sever the blood (vessels to the brain. I The 35 plants throughout I New Zealand slaughtering ; sheep for the E.E.C. have I until next month to make the change. The Freezing Companies Association said the present system of instant death by cutting the animal's throat was considered adequate. Although the companies theoretically have until January 1, they will have the new equipment in by October, to coincide with the selling' seasons.

Each plant will face an i installation bill of about) $300,000, but the association hopes to get Government! assistance.

“Many companies will 1 have to rebuild their plants substantially, and introduce a crush conveyor and revolving tables,” said an association spokesman.

The “humane killer” was expected to lessen the contamination risks and open up new possibilities for the blood by-products. These, not the humane aspect, were the bonus, he said. The Gear Meat Company in Wellington has already installed and used the new system on a trial basis.