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Ogawa NN, Silva GL, Barbon APADC, Flaiban KKMDC, Silva CAD, Rocha LM, Bridi AM. Animal Welfare Assessment and Meat Quality through Assessment of Stress Biomarkers in Fattening Pigs with and without Visible Damage during Slaughter. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:700. [PMID: 38473085 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate the physiological and meat quality differences between Non-Ambulatory, Non-Injured (NANI), and without apparent abnormalities (non-NANI) pigs in a commercial slaughterhouse setting, focusing on the impact of stress and health conditions on the overall well-being and meat quality of the animals. A total of 241 surgically castrated crossbred male pigs from Southern Brazil were analyzed, with 131 non-NANI pigs and 110 NANI pigs. Infrared orbital temperature, rectal temperature, hematological parameters, and meat quality measurements were collected. Statistical analysis included ANOVA tests and principal component analysis (PCA). NANI pigs exhibited significantly higher infrared orbital temperatures and rectal temperature (p < 0.01). Hematological analysis revealed higher levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, and red blood cells in NANI pigs (p < 0.05). White blood cell count and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly elevated in NANI pigs (p < 0.01), indicating potential infections or inflammatory responses. Meat quality parameters showed that NANI pigs had lower pH values, higher luminosity, and increased drip loss (p < 0.01), reflecting poorer water retention and potential muscle glycogen depletion. The study highlights the physiological and meat quality differences between NANI and non-NANI pigs, emphasizing the impact of stress, health conditions, and handling procedures on the animals. Blood biomarkers proved valuable in assessing physiological stress, immune response, and potential health issues in pigs, correlating with meat quality abnormalities. Utilizing these biomarkers as predictive tools can enhance animal welfare practices and contribute to improving meat quality in the swine industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Nami Ogawa
- Departament of Animal Science, State University of Londrina (UEL), Rodovia Celso, Garcia Cid PR 445 km 380, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Giovanna Lima Silva
- Departament of Animal Science, State University of Londrina (UEL), Rodovia Celso, Garcia Cid PR 445 km 380, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Ayub da Costa Barbon
- Departament of Animal Science, State University of Londrina (UEL), Rodovia Celso, Garcia Cid PR 445 km 380, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
| | | | - Caio Abercio da Silva
- Departament of Animal Science, State University of Londrina (UEL), Rodovia Celso, Garcia Cid PR 445 km 380, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Maria Bridi
- Departament of Animal Science, State University of Londrina (UEL), Rodovia Celso, Garcia Cid PR 445 km 380, Londrina 86057-970, Brazil
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2
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An J, Kim Y, Song M, Choi J, Yun W, Oh H, Chang S, Go Y, Song D, Cho H, Park S, Kim Y, Park Y, Park G, Oh S, Cho J. Effect of loading density and weather conditions on animal welfare and meat quality of slaughter pigs. JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY 2023; 65:1323-1340. [PMID: 38616884 PMCID: PMC11007295 DOI: 10.5187/jast.2023.e34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
There are several factors that affect the welfare and meat quality of pigs during pre-slaughter transport. Among various factors, the effects of weather conditions and loading density were studied. A total of 3,726 finishing pigs were allotted to one of nine groups arranged in a 3 × 3 factorial design according to the weather conditions (low temperature [LT], under 10°C; normal temperature [NT], 10°C-24°C; high temperature [HT], upper 24°C), and loading density (low density [LD], upper 0.43 m2/100 kg; normal density [ND], 0.37-0.43 m2/100 kg; high density [HD], under 0.37 m2/100 kg). Each treatment group follow as: LTLD, LTND, LTHD, NTLD, NTND, NTHD, HTLD, HTND, HTHD. In terms of carcass composition, pigs had the highest carcass weight and backfat thickness at LT. Comparing the HD transport to the ND transport, the meat quality indicated a lower pH and more drip loss. The incidence rate of pale, soft, exudative (PSE) pork was high in the order of the HD, LD, and the ND transport (20%, 9%, and 2%, respectively). The HT transport showed the lowest pH and greatest L* value under the given weather conditions. Pigs transported under the HTHD and LTLD conditions had the greatest rates of PSE pork (40% and 20%, respectively). Pigs exposed to HD transport had the shortest laying time and the highest overplap behavior. The LDLT transport pigs had a shorter laying time than the LDNT and LDHT transport pigs. In conclusion, too high or too low density transport is generally not excellent for meat quality or animal welfare, however it is preferable to transport at a slightly low density at high temperature and at a slightly high density at low temperature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewoo An
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Yongju Kim
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Minho Song
- Department of Animal Science and
Biotechnology, Chungnam National University, Daejeon 34134,
Korea
| | - Jungseok Choi
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Won Yun
- Central Research Institute, Woosung Feed
Co., Ltd, Daejeon 34379, Korea
| | - Hanjin Oh
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seyeon Chang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Youngbin Go
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Dongcheol Song
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Hyunah Cho
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Sanghun Park
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Yuna Kim
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Yunhwan Park
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Gyutae Park
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Sehyuk Oh
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Jinho Cho
- Department of Animal Sciences, Chungbuk
National University, Cheongju 28644, Korea
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3
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Kobek-Kjeldager C, Jensen LD, Foldager L, Thodberg K, Schrøder-Petersen DL, Herskin MS. Effects of journey duration and temperature during pre-slaughter transport on behaviour of cull sows in lairage. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105016. [PMID: 37722218 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023]
Abstract
This observational field study investigated the effects of journey duration, temperature, and waiting duration before unloading on the behaviour of 562 cull sows during lairage from 23 commercial loads. Each load consisted of sows originating from more than one herd, thus experiencing variable pre-slaughter transport and management. In lairage, sows were mixed in groups of 25, involving animals from all journey durations (min-max: 0.8-8.4 h) and video monitored for 60 min. At first most sows were in upright position (approximately 80-90%), decreasing to 30-40% after 30 min. After 60 min, 42% of the sows had initiated aggression (min-max: 0-43 events/sow), 28% had been subjected to aggressive behaviour (min-max: 0-14 events/sow), and 36% s were observed drinking (min-max: 0-16 events/sow). Several significant interactions were found between journey duration, the average temperature in the vehicle and lairage pen (averages: 4.3-26.2 °C) and waiting duration before unloading (min-max: 3-25 min). For example, after short journeys, sows exposed to higher temperature carried out more aggressive behaviour, while a higher temperature after long journeys was associated with more lying and less drinking. This suggests that the sows prioritised lying behaviour over drinking and establishing a dominance hierarchy. We discuss how the results may be interpreted as behavioural signs of fatigue, but further studies, for example involving quantification of physiological and motivational indicators, are needed to clarify this. Irrespectively, the present findings suggest that a stay in a lairage pen, as part of the pre-slaughter logistic chain, involves challenges for the welfare of the cull sows.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Line D Jensen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Leslie Foldager
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark; Bioinformatics Research Centre, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Karen Thodberg
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | | | - Mette S Herskin
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
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Tavares MCMS, Arno A, Silveira RMF, de Lara IAR, Salvador ML, de Freitas SM, Silva IJO. Evaluation of environmental enrichment on thermophysical responses, carcass traits, and meat quality of finishing pigs. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:235. [PMID: 37300601 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03634-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Environmental enrichment consists of a way to provide better living conditions for animals, but its influence on physical integrity, thermoregulatory responses, and quality of pork meat is not known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the thermoregulatory responses, lesion score, lameness, carcass traits, and meat quality of pigs with and without access to environmental enrichment (EE) in the finishing phase. A total of 432 pigs of the Hampshire lineage, males and females, with average initial and final weights between 22-27 kg and 110-125 kg respectively were evaluated. The experimental design used was in randomized blocks, with 6 treatments, distributed in a 2×3 factorial scheme (sex × environmental enrichment), with 12 repetitions per treatment, totaling 72 stalls. The treatments were branched chain for males (T1), branched sisal rope for males (T2), males without EE (T3), branched chain for females (T4), branched sisal rope for females (T5), and females without EE (T6). Weekly, two assessments of physiological data were performed, in loco, in the morning and afternoon. Lesions on the tail, ear, body, and lameness were evaluated on the 1st, 16th, 37th, 51st, 79th, 93rd, and 112th days. On the 112th day, 72 animals were slaughtered for carcass traits and meat quality analyses. Statistical analysis was performed using generalized and mixed linear models. There was no effect (p>0.05) of the interaction of the studied factors (environmental enrichment × sex × period) on the head, back, leg, and average temperature. However, there was an effect of the period factor (p<0.01), with higher temperatures in the afternoon compared to the morning. For tail injury, there was no association between injury degree and gender (p=0.56) and between injury degree and enrichment (p=0.99), and there was no interaction effect (p=0.15). For ear injury, there was no association between the degree of ear injury and gender (p=0.72), as well as for the degree of ear injury and enrichment (p=0.99) and interaction (p=0.47). There was a higher occurrence of categories 2, 3, and 4 for lesions on the body in males (p=0.0257), regardless of the EE. Water retention, carcass yield, cut yield, marbling pattern, pH, and color showed no effect for sex, enrichment, and interaction between the two factors (p>0.05). The use of environmental enrichment with sisal ropes and branched chains does not change the thermophysical responses, carcass traits, and meat quality of finishing pig.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Coelly Modesto Santos Tavares
- Environment Livestock Research Group (NUPEA), Department of Biosystems Engineering - "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Arno
- Environment Livestock Research Group (NUPEA), Department of Biosystems Engineering - "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Robson Mateus Freitas Silveira
- Environment Livestock Research Group (NUPEA), Department of Biosystems Engineering - "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Animal Science, "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Idemauro Antonio Rodrigues de Lara
- Department of Exact Sciences, "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maria Letícia Salvador
- Department of Exact Sciences, "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Maria de Freitas
- Department of Statistics and Applied Mathematics, Federal University of Ceará (UFC), Campus do Pici, Science Center, Block 910, CE, 60440-900, Fortaleza, Brazil
| | - Iran José Oliveira Silva
- Environment Livestock Research Group (NUPEA), Department of Biosystems Engineering - "Luiz de Queiroz" College of Agriculture (ESALQ), University of São Paulo (USP), Piracicaba, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Zappaterra M, Faucitano L, Nanni Costa L. Road Transport: A Review of Its Effects on the Welfare of Piglets. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13101604. [PMID: 37238033 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this review is to present the best available scientific knowledge on key effects of pre-transport and transport factors influencing the response of piglets to transport stress and post-transport recovery. To date, research on piglet transportation particularly focused on the effects of season (i.e., heat and cold stress), vehicle design features (ventilation type and deck/compartment location), space allowance and transport duration, and piglet genetics. More specifically, in this review the effect of transport duration has been dealt with through its impact on death rate, behaviour and physiological response, and feeling of hunger and thirst. Based on the available literature, clear conclusions can be drawn on the vulnerability of piglets to heat stress during transport. Both short and long transportation have an effect on piglet welfare, with effects being biased by the genetic background, ambient conditions and vehicle design. Further studies investigating the impact of factors such as vehicle design, truck stocking density and environment, piglet genetic background, and weaning age are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Zappaterra
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, I-40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Luigi Faucitano
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Sherbrooke Research and Development Centre, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 0C8, Canada
| | - Leonardo Nanni Costa
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences (DISTAL), Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Viale Fanin 46, I-40127 Bologna, Italy
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6
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Petri FAM, Ferreira GC, Arruda LP, Malcher CS, Storino GY, Almeida HMDS, Sonalio K, Silva DGD, Oliveira LGD. Associations between Pleurisy and the Main Bacterial Pathogens of the Porcine Respiratory Diseases Complex (PRDC). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13091493. [PMID: 37174529 PMCID: PMC10177087 DOI: 10.3390/ani13091493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Porcine Respiratory Diseases Complex (PRDC) is a multifactorial disease that involves several bacterial pathogens, including Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (M. hyopneumoniae), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (A. pleuropneumoniae), Pasteurella multocida (P. multocida), Glaesserella parasuis (G. parasuis), and Streptococcus suis (S. suis). In pigs, the infection may cause lesions such pleurisy, which can lead to carcass condemnation. Hence, 1015 carcasses were selected from three different commercial pig farms, where the respiratory conditions were evaluated using slaughterhouse pleurisy evaluation system (SPES) and classified into five groups. In total, 106 pleural and lung fragments were collected for qPCR testing to identify the five abovementioned pathogens. A moderate correlation between the severity of the lesions and the presence of P. multocida (R = 0.38) and A. pleuropneumoniae (R = 0.28) was observed. Concerning the lung samples, the severity of the lesions was moderately correlated with the presence of P. multocida (R = 0.43) and M. hyopneumoniae (R = 0.35). Moreover, there was a strong correlation between the presence of P. multocida and M.hyopneumoniae in the pleura (R = 0.82). Finally, this approach may be a useful tool to identify and quantify causative agents of PRDC using qPCR, providing a comprehensive evaluation of its relevance, strength, and potential application in the field as a surveillance tool for veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Geovana Coelho Ferreira
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Laíza Pinto Arruda
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Clarisse Sena Malcher
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Yuri Storino
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Karina Sonalio
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
- Unit of Porcine Health Management, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Daniela Gomes da Silva
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Luís Guilherme de Oliveira
- School of Agricultural and Veterinarian Sciences, São Paulo State University (Unesp), Jaboticabal 14884-900, SP, Brazil
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Schmidt CG, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Earley B, Edwards S, Faucitano L, Marti S, de La Lama GCM, Costa LN, Thomsen PT, Ashe S, Mur L, Van der Stede Y, Herskin M. Welfare of pigs during transport. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07445. [PMID: 36092763 PMCID: PMC9449989 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the framework of its Farm to Fork Strategy, the Commission is undertaking a comprehensive evaluation of the animal welfare legislation. The present Opinion deals with protection of pigs during transport. The welfare of pigs during transport by road is the main focus, but other means of transport are also covered. Current practices related to transport of pigs during the different stages (preparation, loading/unloading, transit and journey breaks) are described. Overall, 10 welfare consequences were identified as highly relevant for the welfare of pigs during transport based on the severity, duration and frequency of occurrence: group stress, handling stress, heat stress, injuries, motion stress, prolonged hunger, prolonged thirst, restriction of movement, resting problems and sensory overstimulation. These welfare consequences and their animal-based measures are described. A variety of hazards were identified, mainly relating to factors such as mixing of unfamiliar pigs, inappropriate handling methods and devices, the use of pick-up pens, inexperienced/untrained handlers, structural deficiencies of vehicles and facilities, poor driving conditions, unfavourable microclimatic and environmental conditions and poor husbandry practices leading to these welfare consequences. The Opinion contains general and specific conclusions relating to the different stages of transport of pigs. Recommendations to prevent hazards and to correct or mitigate welfare consequences are made. Recommendations were also developed to define quantitative thresholds for microclimatic conditions and minimum space allowance within means of transport. The development of the welfare consequences over time was assessed in relation to maximum journey duration. The Opinion covers specific animal transport scenarios identified by the European Commission relating to transport of cull sows and 'special health status animals', and lists welfare concerns associated with these.
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Machado NAF, Barbosa-Filho JAD, Martin JE, Da Silva IJO, Pandorfi H, Gadelha CRF, Souza-Junior JBF, Parente MDOM, Marques JI. Effect of distance and daily periods on heat-stressed pigs and pre-slaughter losses in a semiarid region. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2022; 66:1853-1864. [PMID: 35864272 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-022-02325-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Effective planning animal transport is essential to safeguard animal welfare and reduce production losses. Environmental conditions, specifically extreme temperatures in combination with ranges of relative humidity are highlighted as one of the main risk factors for production losses during transport (e.g., fatalities). The majority of research evaluating both welfare and production impacts of pig transport have been primarily undertaken in Europe and North America, which cover a relatively limited range of distinct climates (e.g., temperate, sub-arctic, etc.). As a result, research on pig transport in semi-arid conditions is lacking. In this study, we evaluated the effects of both distance (short, 30 km; and long, 170 km) and transport daily periods (morning, (05:00-11:00); afternoon (12:00-17:00); and night, (23:00-04:00)) on the preslaughter losses and heat stress of pigs in commercial transport in a semiarid region. Across 19 journeys of standard slaughter-weight pig loads (124.0 ± 2.8 kg), 684 focal animals (36 per journey) were evaluated. For each journey, the load's thermal profile (THIadj and enthalpy) and physiological responses of individual pigs were recorded. On arrival at designated slaughterhouses, the percentage pig of non-ambulatory non-injured (NANI), non-ambulatory injured (NAI), death on arrival (DOA), and total losses were recorded. Short journeys in the afternoon were shown to be more detrimental to the thermal comfort of pigs, with higher rectal temperatures recorded. The highest percentage of total losses and DOA occurred in afternoon journeys, irrespective of distance, followed by the morning, with the lowest losses observed in pigs transported at night. Additionally, total losses and DOA were further exacerbated by journey distance, with higher rates observed in short journeys. Higher percentage averages of NANI and NAI were observed in shorter journeys, but daily periods effects were only observed for NANI. These results further demonstrate the welfare and production loss risks associated with journey distance and time of day (representing varying environmental conditions) during road transport of pigs, whilst providing novel data in semiarid conditions. Careful and effective planning for pig transportation is essential to minimize heat stress and production losses. Consideration of the thermal environment on the day of travel, as well as providing flexibility to adjust travel times (e.g., early morning or evening), should help to mitigate risks of heat stress and production losses during pig transport.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica E Martin
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, The College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Héliton Pandorfi
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, 52171-900, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Jordânio Inácio Marques
- Chapadinha Sciences Center, Universidade Federal Do Maranhão, Chapadinha, MA, 65500-000, Brazil
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9
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Moak KA, Bergeron R, Conte S, Bohrer BM, Arrazola A, Devillers N, Faucitano L. Use of two novel trailer types for transportation of pigs to slaughter. 1. Effects on trailer microclimate, pig behaviour, physiological response, and meat quality under Canadian summer conditions. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1139/cjas-2022-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A total of 3,366 pigs were transported to slaughter in summer (six replicates/trailer type; July-August in southwestern Ontario) using three trailers: a modified triple-deck pot-belly (MPB), an advanced flat-deck (AFD), and a standard pot-belly (SPB). Within trailers, ambient conditions, temperature (T°C ), relative humidity (RH%), and temperature-humidity-index (THI), were monitored in three compartments (bottom front, BF, middle deck, MM, and top rear, TR). A total of 324 pigs were selected for the analysis of hematocrit, lactate, and creatine kinase (CK) levels in exsanguination blood and for the evaluation of pork quality as assessed in the longissimus (LM), semimembranosus (SM), and adductor (AD) muscles. The AFD and MPB trailers presented lower (P < 0.01) T°C and THI compared to the SPB during transit. In the SPB trailer, pigs transported in the MM compartment showed higher (P < 0.01) blood CK concentrations than those transported in the BF compartment and lower pHu values in the SM and AD muscles (P = 0.02 and P = 0.04, respectively) than those transported in the TR compartment. Although the AFD trailer design provided a better microclimate for pigs, the improvements in the design of the novel trailers only slightly reduced stress in pigs during summer transits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle A.T. Moak
- University of Guelph, 3653, Animal Biosciences, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Renée Bergeron
- University of Guelph, Animal Biosciences, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sabine Conte
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada , Sherbrooke R & D Centre , Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Aitor Arrazola
- Purdue University, 311308, West Lafayette, Indiana, United States
| | - Nicolas Devillers
- Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, 6337, Sherbrooke R & D Centre, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Luigi Faucitano
- Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada, Sherbrooke R&D Centre, Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada,
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10
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Romero MH, Sánchez JA, Hernandez RO. Field Trial of Factors Associated With the Presence of Dead and Non-ambulatory Pigs During Transport Across Three Colombian Slaughterhouses. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:790570. [PMID: 35141312 PMCID: PMC8820205 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.790570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Transport by land is an essential component for the commercialization of fattening pigs and can have a negative impact on animal welfare. In slaughterhouses, the presence of dead and non-ambulatory animals is an indicator of poor welfare during transport. The objective of the study was to identify risk factors associated with the frequency of dead and non-ambulatory pigs during transport. A survey was conducted in three Colombian slaughterhouses. Data were collected from 372 batches (n = 18,437 gilts barrows) and transported directly from the farms to the slaughterhouses. Each truck was individually evaluated; a structured survey was administered to drivers, non-ambulatory and dead pigs on arrival were identified and blood samples were obtained from non-ambulatory pigs to assess physiological indicators of stress. Mortality rates per batch at arrival ranged from 0.08 to 0.17% and prevalence of non-ambulatory pigs per batch ranged from 0.84 to 1.37%.The results of the multilevel mixed effects linear regression model identified the following as risk factors associated with the frequency of total transport losses: truck speed (P = 0.04), distance (P < 0.01), transport time (P < 0.01), load size (P < 0.01) and the driver (P < 0.01) including the farm as a fixed effect. This study identified risk factors that increased the probability of total transport losses during land transport under Colombian commercial conditions. But more research that involves commercial drivers is needed to develop effective strategies to improve Colombian pig's transportation chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlyn H. Romero
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Agrarian and Animal Sciences, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
- *Correspondence: Marlyn H. Romero
| | - Jorge Alberto Sánchez
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Agrarian and Animal Sciences, University of Caldas, Manizales, Colombia
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Candiani D, Fabris C, Van der Stede Y, Velarde A. Welfare of pigs at slaughter. EFSA J 2020; 18:e06148. [PMID: 32874326 PMCID: PMC7447914 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.6148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The killing of pigs for human consumption (slaughtering) can take place in a slaughterhouse or on farm. The processes of slaughtering that were assessed for welfare, from the arrival of pigs until their death, were grouped into three main phases: pre-stunning (including arrival, unloading from the truck, lairage, handling and moving of pigs); stunning (including restraint); and bleeding. Stunning methods were grouped into three categories: electrical, controlled atmosphere and mechanical. Twelve welfare consequences the pigs can be exposed to during slaughter were identified: heat stress, cold stress, fatigue, prolonged thirst, prolonged hunger, impeded movement, restriction of movements, resting problem, negative social behaviour, pain, fear and respiratory distress. Welfare consequences and relevant animal-based measures were described. In total, 30 welfare hazards that could occur during slaughter were identified and characterised, most of them related to stunning and bleeding. Staff were identified as the origin of 29 hazards, which were attributed to the lack of appropriate skill sets needed to perform tasks or to fatigue. Corrective and preventive measures for these hazards were assessed: measures to correct hazards were identified, and management was shown to have a crucial role in prevention. Outcome tables linking hazards, welfare consequences, animal-based measures, origins and preventive and corrective measures were developed for each process. Mitigation measures to minimise welfare consequences are proposed.
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Gebhardt JT, Tokach MD, Dritz SS, DeRouchey JM, Woodworth JC, Goodband RD, Henry SC. Postweaning mortality in commercial swine production. I: review of non-infectious contributing factors. Transl Anim Sci 2020; 4:txaa068. [PMID: 32705063 PMCID: PMC7277695 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txaa068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Postweaning mortality is a complex causal matrix involving animal, environment, and infectious etiologic factors. Despite advances in swine productivity such as total pigs born, growth rate, feed intake, and efficiency, there have been modest to no improvements in postweaning mortality rates over the last several years. Industry averages for postweaning mortality range from four to eight percent for each the nursery, grow-finish, or wean-finish stages. Retrospective mortality causal analyses of individual databases have been performed. However, little information derived from meta-analysis, systematic review, or comprehensive literature reviews are available. In order to develop and evaluate strategies to comprehensively manage and reduce postweaning mortality, addressing the complexity and range of impact that factors have on mortality is necessary to identify and prioritize such contributing factors. Our objective is to describe the current state of knowledge regarding non-infectious causes of postweaning mortality, focusing on estimates of frequency and magnitude of effect where available. Postweaning mortality can be generalized into non-infectious and infectious causes, with non-infectious factors further classified into anatomic abnormalities, toxicity, animal factors, facility factors, nutritional inadequacies, season, and management factors. Important non-infectious factors that have been identified through review of literature include birth weight, pre-weaning management, weaning age and weight, and season. Additionally, reasons for mortality with a low incidence but a high magnitude include abdominal organ torsion/volvulus, sodium ion or ionophore toxicosis, or dietary imbalance due to feed formulation or manufacture error. Many interactive effects are present between and among infectious and non-infectious factors, but an important trend is the impact that non-infectious factors have on the incidence, severity, and resolution of infectious disease. Strategies to reduce postweaning mortality must consider the dynamic, complex state that forms the causal web. Control of postweaning mortality through understanding of the complexity, evaluation of mortality reduction strategies through rigorous scientific evaluation, and implementation remains an area of opportunity for continued growth and development in the global swine industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan T Gebhardt
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Mike D Tokach
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Steve S Dritz
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Joel M DeRouchey
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Jason C Woodworth
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
| | - Robert D Goodband
- Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, College of Agriculture, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
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Dalla Costa FA, Dalla Costa OA, Di Castro IC, Gregory NG, Di Campos MS, Leal GBDM, Tavernari FDC. Ease of Handling and Physiological Parameters of Stress, Carcasses, and Pork Quality of Pigs Handled in Different Group Sizes. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9100798. [PMID: 31615059 PMCID: PMC6826851 DOI: 10.3390/ani9100798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The effect of different group sizes of pigs (3, 5, and 10 pigs) during handling on physiological parameters, carcasses, and pork quality traits at the farm and slaughterhouse were evaluated in 360 pigs. Ease of handling decreased as the group size increased. Moving pigs in smaller groups improve animal welfare parameters and carcass quality. However, meat quality classifications of the carcasses were not affected by the groups size used in preslaughter handling. Based on the results, moving groups of five pigs seems to be the best strategy to improve animal welfare and carcass quality. Abstract The effect of different group sizes of pigs (3, 5, and 10 pigs) during handling on physiological parameters, carcasses, and pork quality traits at the farm and slaughterhouse were evaluated in 360 pigs from five farms (four repetitions or group/treatment/farms). Data was analyzed as a factorial of 3 × 5 (3 treatments × 5 farms) to check effects of treatments by analysis of variance in ANOVA. Ease of handling decreased as the group size increased. However, time taken in handling was not influenced by the group size (p > 0.10). Moving pigs in groups of five animals reduced effects on blood cortisol levels (p < 0.05). Fighting and handling lesions in the carcasses increased for bigger handling groups (p < 0.05). Pigs handled in groups of three and ten animals had a higher pHu and initial temperature in Longissimus thoracis and Semimembranosus (p < 0.05) and lower drip loss in Semimembranosus (p < 0.05). However, meat quality classifications of the carcasses were not affected by treatments. Based on the results, moving groups of five pigs seems to be the best strategy to improve animal welfare, carcasses and pork quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipe Antonio Dalla Costa
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, UNESP-FCAV, Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil.
| | | | - Izabela Cruvinel Di Castro
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia-GO 74.045-155, Brazil.
| | | | - Melissa Selaysim Di Campos
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia-GO 74.045-155, Brazil.
| | - Guilherme Brunno de Medeiros Leal
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Zootecnia, Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia-GO 74.045-155, Brazil.
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