Halal and kosher meat does not have to be stunned before slaughter.

Slaughter operations immediately halted 

An investigation into alleged breaches of animal welfare at an abattoir in Norfolk has been launched by the Food Standards Agency (FSA).

Footage obtained earlier this year by the Hillside Animal Sanctuary revealed serious abuse of animals at the Simply Halal abattoir in Banham.

The charity say they were tipped off about the slaughterhouse by a government official and placed hidden cameras inside the building after finding unlocked doors.

Speaking to Farmers Weekly, an FSA spokesperson said: “Following an FSA investigation, we immediately halted slaughter operations at Simply Halal and launched urgent investigations.  

“We have suspended personal licences to slaughter and handle animals [known as certificates of competence] for five individuals, including Simply Halal employees seen in the footage, as we do not consider them to be fit and proper persons to handle animals.

“The official veterinarian and the meat hygiene inspector working in the premises at the time of these incidents have also been suspended from their duties, pending immediate investigations.”

According to the FSA, all animals must be stunned before slaughter. Halal and kosher meat is the only exception to this rule, but abattoirs must still adhere to strict government guidelines.

In light of the allegations, the BVA have reiterated their call for mandatory CCTV in all slaughterhouses and legislation to ensure vets have unrestricted access to the footage.