International Journal of Animal Science, Husbandry and Livestock Production ISSN: 2141-5191 Vol. 1 (4), pp. 079-094, December, 2014. © Advanced Scholars Journals 

Review

Animal welfare in a versatile Milk production System and its effects on beef quality

Rhodes Biko¹* and Jacob Tambo²

Department of Livestock Production, Faculty of Agricultural Science, University of Pretoria,South Africa.

E-mail:[email protected]  

Accepted 05 November, 2014

Abstract 

Animal welfare and its influence on beef production are major considerations in many developed countries. In the developing world, where food insecurity and poverty are prevalent, the welfare of animals receives low priority due to factors such as traditional customs and beliefs, lack of knowledge in animal handling and sub standard handling facilities. This is worsened by the fact that cattle are used for several purposes, such as meat production, milk production, draught power and traditional ceremonies. Research on animal welfare and how it relates to animal production have been done in the developed world. The objective of this study is to discuss indicators of animal welfare assessment, their impact on meat quality and applications to improve beef production in developing countries.

Key Words: Behavioral assessments, flight zones, meat quality, ritual slaughter.