Links
Recommended resources for veterinary and animal science

Meat production

General resources

University of Sydney Library Catalogue
Recommended subject headings on the University of Sydney Library Catalogue are:

• beef industry
• feed utilization efficiency and meat.
• goat meat industry
• kangaroo meat industry
• kosher meat industry
• lamb meat industry
• meat cutting
• meat grading
• meat hygiene
• meat industry and trade
• meat quality
• meat transportation.

Animal Handling Troubleshooting Guide: Tips for Solving Common Animal Handling Problems
This article was written by Dr. Temple Grandin and appeared in the March 2000 edition of Meat &Poultry. It discusses consumer demands for quality meat free of defects such as dark cutting beef and pale, soft exudative pork (PSE). Probable causes and solutions of dark cutters and PSE as well as the use of electric prods in animal handling are examined.

The Use of CAT-Scanners for Animal Production Research
There are six sites worldwide that have CAT-Scanners installed for animal production research. The Department of Animal Science at the University of New England has used a CAT-Scanner for animal production research since 1988. For each of the six sites details are given on the personnel involved, specific scanners, past and present projects and publications arising from these research projects.

Meat Science Publications
The Texas A&M University Animal Science Extension Program Unit has published a series of short articles relating to meat science. Topics covered include beef quality and yield rating, pork quality issues, and carcass pathogen interventions.

Manual on meat inspection for developing countries
This book is authored by Dr D. Herenda and published on the web by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. It discusses meat inpection procedures, general pathological conditions, and specific diseases of cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, horses, poultry and rabbits.

Australian Standard for the Construction of Premises and Hygienic Production of Poultry Meat for Human Consumption
Full text of Standing Committee of Agriculture and Resource Management (SCARM) Report No. 75 published by the CSIRO. The report is in .pdf format and a little slow to download.

Information Resources for Livestock and Poultry Handling and Transport
Published by the US Department of Agriculture in December 1998. This publication is No. 4 in the Animal Welfare Information Center Resource Series. The site provides a bibliography of publications as well as a list of web resources about transportation and handling.

Proceedings: Standards for Food Animal Production: Status, Well-Being, and Social ResponsibilityPublished by the US Department of Agriculture. Full text of proceedings of a conference held on September 18, 2002 in Washington D.C. as part of the Future Trends in Animal Agriculture project.

India's poultry sector: development and prospects
Report prepared by Maurice Landes, Suresh Persaud, and John Dyck for the Economic Research Service of the US Department of Agriculture. Discusses the rising demand for poultry products in India, new production methods and technologies being used, and prospects for future growth of the industry. Published in January 2004 in .pdf format.

Livestock Behaviour, Design of Facilities and Humane Slaughter
Created by Dr Temple Gradin Ph.D, this web site concerns modern methods of livestock handling aimed at improving animal welfare and productivity. It includes detailed articles, images and diagrams on subjects such as livestock behaviour, humane slaughter, design of facilities, stress and meat quality, and animal welfare.

Animal behaviour and the design of livestock and poultry systems
Proceedings from:the Animal Behaviour and the Design of Livestock and Poultry Systems International Conference held in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 19-21, 1995. This paper was presented by Dr Temple Grandin of the Colorado State University and outlines her 10 principles for the restraint of livestock and the need for improvement in current practices.

Animal Welfare and Humane Slaughter
This article was written by Dr. Temple Grandin and Gary C. Smith from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University. It discusses various pre-slaughter stunning methods, which should render animals insensitive to pain thereby insuring they do not suffer needlessly. The stunning method used should ensure adverse effects such as blood-splash, fractures and PSE meat are avoided. Ritual slaughter and objective scoring methods used to assess animal welfare are also considered. This article focuses mainly on pigs and cattle however poultry and sheep are briefly mentioned.There is reference to Australia and a list of references is included.

Animal Welfare in Slaughter Plants
This paper was written by Dr.Temple Grandin from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University. It was presented at the 29th Annual Conference of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners in 1996. The five basic causes of animal welfare problems in slaughter plants are discussed. These are:

1. poorly designed or improper stunning and handling equipment
2. distractions that impede animal movement and cause them to become excited
3. lack of employee training and poor supervision of employees
4. poor maintenance of equipment and facilities
5. poor condition of animals arriving at the plant.

Model Code of Practice for the Welfare of Animals: Livestock at Slaughtering Establishments
Full text of Standing Committee of Agriculture and Resource Management (SCARM) Report No. 79 published by the CSIRO. "This Code of Practice is intended as a standard for those involved in slaughtering livestock. It covers aspects of unloading, pre-slaughter handling and the slaughter process and aims to encourage the efficient, considerate treatment of animals so that stress is minimised. It includes a section about emergency slaughter of sick, crippled and "downer" animals. Techniques for the humane destruction of animals are also described in the Code." The report is in .pdf format and a little slow to download.

Lowering Stress to Improve Meat Quality and Animal Welfare
This Web site discusses how to reduce slaughter stress in cattle, pigs and sheep. "Gentle handling in well-designed facilities will minimise stress levels, improve efficiency and maintain good meat quality. Rough handling or poorly designed equipment is detrimental to both animal welfare and meat quality."

Humane Killing
Published by the RSPCA Australia, this is a collection of policy statements, position papers, and guidelines on humane slaughter, humane killing, welfare of animals at abbatoirs, and humane killing and processing of crustaceans.

News and information on humane slaughter
Published by the Food Safety and Inspection Service, United States Department of Agriculture. A collection of news releases and public statements, notices and directives, and reports and publications covering humane slaughter and humane animal handling.

Slaughter
Published by the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Sudies (Edinburgh). A collection of links to articles on humane slaughter published by various government, educational, industry, and welfare organisations.

The scientific approach to resolving conflicts between veterinary science and shechita.
Authored by L.S. Shore, Department of Hormone Research, Kimron Veterinary Institute and published by the Israel Veterinary Medical Association. Discusses modern scientific research on halachic problems of veterinary interest.

Disposal of dead production animals
Compiled and published by the Animal Welfare Information Center, U.S. Department of Agriculture. An extensive bibliography listing scientific articles, books, and conference proceedings addressing the disposal of cattle, swine, poultry, sheep, goats, fish, and wild birds. It covers the period from 1988 to 2002 and entries are organised by year and alphabetically by author within the year.

Fish fillets grow in tank
Writen by Ian Sample and published by NewScientist.com this brief article reports on research by NASA scientists aimed at growing meat in industrial quantities from the muscle cell lines of various animals or fish without the need for slaughter.

Bos Indicus-Cross Feedlot Cattle with Excitable Temperaments have Tougher Meat and a Higher Incidence of Borderline Dark Cutters (Abstract)
This abstract written by B.D. Voisinet, T.Grandin & S.F. O'Connor et al. from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University appeared in Meat Science 46:4 (1997). Studies on temperament ratings of Braford, Red Brangus and Simbrah cattle showed that temperament rating had a significant effect on the incidence of borderline dark cutters and tenderness.

Bruise Levels on Fed and Non-Fed Cattle
This paper was written by Dr.Temple Grandin from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University. It was presented at the 79th Annual Meeting of the Livestock Conservation Institute in 1995. It discusses bruising of U.S. fed steers and heifers with information provided from the 1992 National Beef Quality Audit and the 1994 National Non-fed Beef Quality Audit both of which were conducted by the Colorado State University for the National Cattlemen's Association. Information is also provided from the 1993 Strategic Alliance Field Study. Factors which can help prevent bruising such as gentle handling and the de-horning of cattle are discussed with reference to Australian research. A list of references is included.

Commentary: Behaviour of Slaughter Plant and Auction Employees toward the Animals
This article was written by Dr. Temple Grandin from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University and appeared in Anthrozoos 1:4 (1988). It discusses the results of a survey of livestock markets and slaughter plant employee behaviour and how it is affected by management behaviour. In 1984 51 livestock markets in 11 southeastern states were surveyed on handling practices and the condition of their facilities. Factors influencing abuse and cruelty incidence towards animals at auctions and slaughter plants are examined. A list of references is included.

Factors Contributing to the Incidence of Dark Cutting Beef
This article written by J A Scanga, K E Belk, J D Tatum et al from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, appeared in the Journal of Animal Science in 1998. It states that dark cutting beef results from pre-harvest stress. Stress factors which may contribute to the dark cutting condition include the weather, growth promotants, genetics, the animals disposition and handling practices before harvest. Feedlot data from nine large commercial feedlots obtained over a 3-year period was used in this project. The project was funded by a grant from the National Cattleman's Beef Association - Beef Quality Assurance Task Force, Englewood, Colorado, USA.

Feedlot Cattle with Calm Temperaments have Higher Average Daily Gains than Cattle with Excitable Temperaments
This article written by B.D. Voisinet, T.Grandin, S.F. O'Connor and J.J. Struthers from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University appeared in the Journal of Animal Science 75 (1997). In a study conducted in 1994 at Colorado feedlot facilities four hundred thirty six cattle (292 steers and 144 heifers) were separated into two groups Brahman cross breeds and non-Brahman breeds. Animals of Brahman breeding had a higher mean temperament rating or were more excitable than those of non-Brahman breeding. "Data also shows that heifers have a higher mean temperament rating than steers. Cattle that were quieter and calmer during handling had greater average daily gains than cattle that became agitated during routine handling". A list of references is included.

How to Track Down the Cause of Bruising
This article by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University discusses the causes of bruising and how to determine whether it occurs in the plant or during transportation.

How Stressful Is Slaughter?
This article by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University, deals with the limitations of cortisol measurement as an indicator of handling stress in cattle.

Lowering Stress To Improve Meat Quality and Animal Welfare In Cattle
Article written by Dr Temple Grandin, an Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University, on how to minimise problems with meat quality that are exacerbated by stress and /or strenuous muscle activity and the subsequent raised pH levels.

Methods to reduce PSE and bloodsplash
This paper was written by Temple Grandin (Ph.D.) and was updated in October 2000. It was presented at the Allen D. Leman Swine Conference (Volume 21, 1994) held at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota in 1994 and published by Veterinary Outreach Programs, University of Minnesota. Slaughter plants and farms from all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia were observed by the author and results indicate "that producers are responsible for about 50% of the pale, soft, and exudative (PSE) pork on the market, and packers are responsible for the other 50%. Surveys conducted in slaughter plants in two different countries indicated that PSE levels varied over 100% between different producers."

Preventing Injuries and Bruises
This article by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University covers the importance of non-slip surfaces on any floor where cattle walk and how bruising can be reduced by ensuring that gates, fences and chutes have smooth surfaces.

The Principles Of Low Stress Restraint Cattle
Guidelines formulated by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University, to successfully restrain cattle during transportation by reducing the bovine’s view of an escape path.

Proper Cattle Restraint for Stunning
This article by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University, gives guidelines and recommendations for appropriate apparatus and conditions to achieve the most humane position for cattle during stunning.

Humane slaughter of bovine
Paper presented by Roberto de Oliveira Roca at the First Virtual Global Conference on Organic Beef Cattle Production, September 2 to October 15 2002. Discusses ante mortem processes including transport and handling, stunning and bleeding methods and their effects on meat quality and animal welfare.

Dealing with Excitable Pigs
This article written by Dr.Temple Grandin from the Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University discussing excitability problems in pigs which are "caused by a combination of indiscriminate genetic selection for leanness, rapid weight gain, and a lack of stimulation in confinement buildings". Some ways of reducing this problem are discussed such as having well designed facilities with enough space so that pigs can lie down and rest prior to being slaughtered this will improve the quality of the pork meat.

Electric Stunning of Pigs
This article written by Temple Grandin discusses safety tips for workers using electric stunning equipment. The two types of electric stunning procedures are discussed. If electric stunning is done correctly it should induce instant insensibility so that the pig does not suffer any pain and bloodspots are avoided in the meat. A reference on electric stunning is included.

Handling Pigs for Optimum Performance on the Farm and in the Slaughter Plant
Written by Temple Grandin, this paper looks at pigs that carry a stress gene and how they tend to be more nervous and excitable. This can affect the quality of their meat, which can be tougher and drier than other pork there is also a higher risk of PSE. Tips on improved handling at the packing plant and moving and loading finishing pigs have been included in this article. A list of references has also been included.

Electric Stunning of Sheep
This article outlines safe working practices for stunners. It was compiled by Dr Temple Grandin, Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University. Alternative methods of effective and humane stunning methods are compared.

The Principles of Low Stress Restraint For Sheep
Guidelines formulated by Dr Temple Grandin Associate Professor in Animal Science at the Colorado State University, to successfully restrain sheep in a comfortable and humane position.

Porcine Myology
Cross sections and lateral views of a pig carcass are pictured and described on this site. The site includes muscle descriptions, supplying names of both wholesale cuts and retail cuts of the meat, as well as bone and cartilage descriptions. It is a US based site, copublished by the National Pork Board ; National Pork Producers Council ; University of Nebraska-Lincoln Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Animal Science Department and University of Nebraska-Lincoln Distance Extension Unit.

Meat Rabbit Farming - an introduction
A CSIRO information sheet on meat rabbit farming. Issues discussed include breeding stock, housing, feeding, handling, reproduction, diseases and marketing.

Rabbits
The Association Francaise de Cuniculture (French Rabbit Association) is an independent non-profit association governed by French national regulations. The main aim of the Association is the national and international dissemination of information relating to rabbit biology and rabbit utilisation for production, mainly meat production.

Organisations

Ausmeat
Ausmeat is a commercial body, whose mission is to provide and ensure the integrity of relevant industry standards on behalf of the Australian Meat and Livestock industry. It provides commercial services, including training, to all sectors of the industry, and has links to relevant industry bodies.

Australian Lot Feeders' Association (AFLA)
This site provides current information for owners of feedlot cattle and those interested in the industry. Continuing education opportunities are listed with details of upcoming courses and information forums. There is a comprehensive diary of events with all the relevant contact details. The research review provides full text access to articles relating to all aspects of feedlot cattle.

Australian Pork Limited (APL)
APL is the representative body of Australian pork producers. This web site contains information on pig industry statistics - including prices, exports and imports and charts and tables relating to slaughtering and pig meat production. There is a section on specifications for cuts of pork, news and a contacts directory.

Beef CRC : The Cooperative Research Centre for Cattle and Beef Quality
The Cooperative Research Centre for the Cattle and Beef Industry (Meat Quality) is an unincorporated joint venture between the University of New England, CSIRO, NSW Agriculture and the Queensland Department of Primary Industries. Ninety professional research staff and seventy technical support personnel are involved in research programs in the fields of Meat Science, Genetics, Growth and Nutrition, Health and Welfare, Feedlot Waste Management and Education. The site has links to information on relevant publications, programs and education/training.

Cattle Council of Australia
"Cattle Council of Australia is the peak producer organisation representing Australia's beef cattle producers". This site provides information on beef industry policies and issues, such as marketing, trade, processing, animal health and welfare. You can subscribe to the free CattlEnews email service. There are links to Foot and Mouth Disease resources and other related cattle industry sites.

Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA)
This is the homepage of Meat and Livestock Australia. The MLA "undertakes a range of research and development, information and marketing programs designed to benefit beef, sheepmeat and goatmeat industry participants, from livestock producers right through to retailers." Information available on their web site includes market and industry information, consumer information, as well links to freely availble full-text resources.

Meat Standards Australia
Meat Standards Australia (MSA) is a beef grading program that labels beef with a guaranteed grade and recommended cooking method to identify beef eating quality according to consumers perceptions.

Red Meat Advisory Council (RMAC)
The key functions of the RMAC are cross sector policy advice, asset management, and custody of the Memorandum of Understanding. RMAC is a meat associations regulatory body which reports on strategic direction, industry structure and news. There are links to its member associations.

Safemeat
Safemeat is a partnership between the Australian meat and livestock industry and State and Federal governments, whose primary role is to oversee and promote sound management systems (from farm to plate). This site contains current topics related to diseases and regulations and includes information on Bluetongue virus, BSE, FMD, and the National Vender Declaration. There is also a news section, contacts and links to related sites.

Humane Slaughter Association
The Humane Slaughter Association (HSA) is "committed to the welfare of animals in markets, during transport and to the point of slaughter. It believes in a positive, rational approach and, with your support, can make a lasting and practical improvement to the welfare of food animals."

Research databases and indexes

Recommended research databases and indexes for this area of study are: AGRICOLA, CAB Abstracts, MEDLINE, BIOSIS Previews and Web of Science.