Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Mechanical, Electrical And Anesthetic Stunning Methods For Livestock, Temple Grandin

Agribusiness Collection

A good stunning method must render an animal unable to experience pain and sensation prior to hoisting and slaughter. The three basic types of stunning methods which are classified as being humane (i.e., painless) in the United States, Europe and other foreign countries are captive bolt (penetrating and nonpenetrating), electrical, and C02 (carbon dioxide) gas anesthesia.

The physiological mechanisms of stress are the same before and after the onset of unconsciousness. The release of epinephrine as a result of stress inducers has an effect on the quality of the meat and it is therefore desirable to use a stunning method …