Published 30/01/2015

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has analysed figures from the Food Standards Agency out this week and points to a big increase in the number of animals that were not stunned before being killed in the UK.

If correct, this is a disturbing development. We are against non-stun slaughter and we want to see the government put an end to the practice, which causes animal suffering.

While it is still allowed, we want to see clear labelling which identifies meat that comes from animals that were not stunned before being killed. Consumers can then make an informed choice.

It is also essential that animals are stunned effectively.

Last year, Compassion learned that chickens slaughtered for halal meat were not being stunned effectively, which means they will be receiving a painful electric shock that immobilises them before being slaughtered whilst fully conscious.

We are continuing to lobby the government on this issue and, while it has already passed the required 100,000 signatures, are urging people to sign the BVA’s government e-petition to end non-stun slaughter. The petition closes on March 30.