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Animal welfare is increasingly at the center of consumers’ attention and priorities. More than just an ethical issue, a recent study (Role of sustainability attributes and occasion matters in determining consumers’ beef choice) reveals that, in beef production, the issue is even held as one of the pillars of sustainability.
It is a non-negotiable priority that ensures not only the quality of the products, but also the quality of life of the animals under the producers’ care.
However, as the demand for animal products is projected to double in the coming decades – driven by population growth and economic prosperity – a challenge arises: how can production systems adapt to meet these new demands without putting animal welfare at risk? Below, we look at the importance of this issue in modern livestock farming.
Physically and mentally healthy
Animal welfare, according to the World Organization for Animal Health, refers to “the physical and mental state of an animal in relation to the conditions in which it lives and dies”. This concept encompasses the animals’ health, the conditions in which they are kept, and their social interactions. Proper management should ensure that animals have access to quality food and water, safe shelter, appropriate veterinary care, and the opportunity to express natural behaviors and positive feelings throughout their lives.
Animals that live well thrive
Livestock handling that respects animal welfare not only results in better quality products, but also contributes to the efficiency of production systems. When animals are raised in suitable environments that guarantee access to veterinary care, a balanced diet, and space for natural behaviors, they tend to be healthier, develop better, and become less stressed.
Welfare also means productivity…
Healthy animals require fewer inputs and have a lower mortality rate, minimizing the waste of resources such as water and food. When raised in conditions that meet their needs, they develop faster and result in higher quality products. Practices that prioritize animal welfare reduce operating costs and the need for veterinary interventions, as well as relieving pressure on natural resources.
… and sustainability
Animal welfare also goes hand in hand with sustainable practices. A management that prioritizes this aspect also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preserving water resources, and restoring soil health. For example, rotational grazing systems improve animal welfare because they provide access to fresh, nutritious pasture, and allow natural behaviors. Reducing the use of antibiotics in animal feed also prevents water and soil contamination. In addition, balanced diets often result in a more efficient use of resources and a smaller ecological footprint in production.
Healthy nutrition
A balanced diet that meets the specific nutritional needs of each species is essential to ensure proper development, effective reproduction and optimal production. Quality food guarantees access to vital nutrients and helps prevent diseases and metabolic problems that can compromise health and welfare. It also favors the expression of natural behaviors, reducing stress and improving quality of life, which ultimately reflects in higher quality products for the consumer.
Careful transportation
Animal transportation is a critical stage in the production chain that deserves special attention and must be carefully planned and executed to ensure maximum comfort and safety for the animals. Inadequate conditions can lead to animal stress, suffering and even death, negatively impacting the quality of the end products. This is why, for example, route planning, the use of advanced technology and appropriate vehicles that guarantee safety and comfort during travel and reduce the carbon footprint associated with travel are essential.
Appropriate temperature
Maintaining adequate temperature control during transportation and in rearing facilities is essential for animal welfare. Extreme temperatures can cause heat stress, affecting health and productivity. Climate monitoring systems help ensure that animals are in environments that guarantee their comfort in both normal and adverse conditions.
Rest is essential
Offering adequate rest periods throughout their productive life and after transportation is a practice that not only respects the animals’ health, but is also crucial to improving their development and general welfare.
Animal welfare is a global concern and demand
Farmers from several countries have committed themselves to initiatives that promote animal welfare. In the European Union, for example, the “Farm to Fork Strategy” and Re-Livestock encourage the development of protocols that ensure animals are treated humanely at all stages of production, promote training programs for workers focused on management practices that respect animal welfare, and address best practices for transportation.
Animal welfare is a Minerva Foods commitment
Minerva Foods is committed to animal welfare and implements various practices to ensure that each animal is treated with the utmost respect and dignity at every stage of production. The company adopts strict protocols that include humane handling, ensuring that the transportation and slaughter processes are carried out with as little stress as possible. It also invests in training for employees, promoting a culture of respect and care for animals, they also implement monitoring systems that guarantee compliance with animal welfare standards. Thanks to these efforts, the company has achieved PAACO (Professional Animal Auditor Certification) certification at all of their production units and GAP – Pasture Raised – Global Animal Partnership certification at their farms in Uruguay.
Bibliographic reference: Book “Bem-estar Animal como Valor Agregado nas Cadeias Produtivas da Pecuária” (Animal Welfare as Added Value in Livestock Production Chains)
