FSA reassure on data collection policy
After a delay in the release of data prompted rumours that they were to stop collecting data altogether, the agency has released a statement dispelling concerns.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) are implementing a new system for data collection on non-stun slaughter in UK abattoirs. After a delay in the release of data prompted rumours that they were to stop collecting data altogether, the agency has released a statement dispelling concerns.
FSA stated: "Recent media coverage has suggested that we would no longer be collecting data on the numbers of animals killed by non-stun slaughter in UK abattoirs. No such change was ever planned."
In a bid to improve systems for data collection, the FSA intend to implement a continuous means of capturing information to generate published results that are easier to understand.
The statement continued: "It has always been our intention to continue collecting information on the numbers of animals that are slaughtered in abattoirs without being stunned and releasing it publicly."
In an ongoing pledge to support animal welfare awareness, public release of previous data collected on non-stun slaughter rates incited a BVA petition to stop non-stun slaughters that received a strong public backing of more than 100,000 signatures.
The FSA concluded by saying: "Animal welfare is a high priority for the FSA and our staff working in abattoirs and we remain committed to openness and transparency."
The 2013 report into UK non-stun slaughter can be found here: http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2015/13501/animal-welfare-survey-of-slaughterhouses-published
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