The Challenges of Long-Distance Transport in Beef Processing

This year, a notable trend in the beef processing industry has emerged: livestock traveling extensive distances to reach slaughter facilities. This phenomenon has been particularly evident with large numbers of cattle from northern regions being moved thousands of kilometers for processing in southern states.

Such long-distance transportation often arises from producers fulfilling long-standing contracts or specific requirements that only certain abattoirs can meet, according to Agriculture Victoria.

Preparation for Long Journeys

Agriculture Victoria’s district veterinary officer, Cathy Bunter, emphasizes the importance of properly preparing animals for lengthy trips. Key aspects include ensuring adequate nutrition, hydration, and heat management throughout the journey.

Dr. Bunter further recommends familiarizing livestock with water troughs before transport. This preparation helps animals recognize and utilize troughs for drinking during and after the journey.

Benefits of Shorter Transport Distances

Shortening transport journeys offers numerous advantages, including reduced costs and lower risks of injury, disease, and death among livestock. According to Dr. Bunter, livestock traveling distances greater than 400 km or undergoing journeys longer than 30 hours are subject to significantly increased welfare incidents.

“Producers and transporters are reminded that the Land Transport Standards represent nationally accepted mandatory animal welfare guidelines developed collaboratively by livestock industries and government agencies,” Dr. Bunter stated. These standards should be adhered to by anyone involved in the transportation of livestock, and more information can be found on the Land Transport – Australian Animal Welfare website.

Quality and Welfare Outcomes

Dr. Bunter mentions additional motivations for reducing transport distances, such as enhanced meat quality. Less stress during transport typically results in more tender meat, which contributes to higher consumer satisfaction. Furthermore, livestock producers can also benefit from heavier carcass yields.

“Regardless of the distance they must travel, better-prepared animals lead to improved welfare outcomes, a critical consideration especially for livestock still recovering from the impacts of prolonged drought,” Dr. Bunter concluded.

Source: Agriculture Victoria