Abstract:
The use of electrical water bath stunning for the ‘humane’ slaughter of poultry has drawn criticism
from some animal welfare research scientists and animal welfare organizations throughout the
world. During water bath stunning, birds are shackled and inverted prior to entry into an
electrified water bath, current is passed from the head, through the body and legs to earth via
stainless steel shackles. From a Halal perspective, the rules stipulate that the welfare of animals
is protected at all times and that animals must be alive (not conscious) at the point of
neck-cutting. Some Muslim authorities have therefore questioned the suitability of water bath
stunning for Halal meat production due to its negative impact on animal welfare and the possibility
of some birds dying prior to exsanguination. This paper examines possible welfare compromises
during water bath stunning and how these may affect compatibility with the rules of Halal meat
production
