On-farm slaughter and emergency slaughter in Sweden : prerequisites for reducing food loss of pigs and cattle

Abstract: Although consumers are responsible for much food waste, recent studies have shown significant losses on farm-level. A recent report published by the Swedish Board of Agriculture presented that 3% and 8% of pigs and cattle are lost respectively, requesting further research regarding the potential in salvaging meat through on-farm slaughter (OFS) and on-farm emergency slaughter (OFES). Thus, the aim of this study was set to investigate the attitudes and interests of abattoirs and key industry actors to initiate or increase the use of OFS and OFES. A qualitative study was conducted by interviewing six abattoirs, one veterinary consultant, one meat industry trade group, the Swedish National Food Agency, and 11 game-handling establishments (GHE). The results showed overall concerns regarding economic and technical limitations of performing OFES and OFS, as well as limitations due to official veterinary controls. GHE was observed as having potential in a system of OFES or OFS, due to their current ability to receive carcasses of wild game. Future recommendations include investigating the potential of expanding the regulatory framework for official veterinary controls, to use OFS as a tool for non-acute injuries and to include GHE in a functioning system of OFS and OFES.