Effect of Road Transport Conditions on Mortality and Meat Quality in the Farm Animals

Abstract

It is known that the scientific research number within the quality meat production and reduction of meat production losses have expanded in the past few years both in developed and developing countries. One conclusion that has been drawn is that the manner in which the animal is transported affects both the shelf-life and appearance of the meat. When the highway transportation conditions are not suitable for the animal welfare rules, it leads to mortality, carcass bruises, and meat pH changes. Therefore, if a good planning can be made considering the characteristics of the animals (breed, species, sex, age, and breeding system) and the transportation factors (handlers, drivers, loading, unloading, vehicle, space allowance, season, hunger, thirst, social group, and the condition and distance of the way) will reduce production losses and improve meat quality. The aim of this review is to provide comprehensive information for researchers and field workers about the criteria that needs to be considered in planning the highway transportation of animals.