FARGO (KFGO KVRR) – The U.S. Department of Agriculture temporarily suspended slaughter inspections at NDSU’s Meat Laboratory following what the agency calls “an egregious inhumane handling incident.”
According to a report from the Food Safety & Inspection Service, an animal that was being slaughtered on Feb. 28 regained consciousness, but no attempts were made to render the animal unconscious before proceeding.
“There were no other attempts made to render the animal unconscious due to the backup (handheld captive bolt device) not being readily available,” the report says. “Evidence demonstrates your failure to meet regulatory requirements…constituting a violation of the humane slaughter requirements.”
The suspension was temporarily halted after NDSU submitted proposed corrective actions and preventative measures.
USDA says failure to comply could result in reinstatement of the suspension or administrative or legal action. Verification will be conducted and results will be reported to the Des Moines District Office on a weekly basis.
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