On May 1, 2017, we visited three slaughterhouses unannounced: poultry slaughterhouse ESBRO in Wehl, Heinz’s pork and beef slaughterhouse in Zelhem and calf slaughterhouse Fuite Veal in Tubbergen.
At poultry slaughterhouse ESBRO, there was initially no time and interest in our visit. After talking briefly with the company leader and indicating what our goal was (giving advice on animal-welfare and improving the design of the poultry transport containers), the mood became easier. It was agreed that ESBRO would think about allowing us into their plant at a later date. We will be re-contacting them later this month.
We had visited Heiner’s slaughterhouse before – the purpose of this re-visit was to check on the improvements they put in place, based on our advice, since our last visit. André Heinen was very pleased with the changes because now the handling of the pigs towards the electric-stunning box is easier and calmer because the pigs have less fear. Just like last time we were allowed to enter the slaughterhouse immediately, which is a very positive sign. We have reviewed the adjustments and they looked good. We have agreed to come back again to see the cattle slaughter and to see the animal welfare adaptations for the pigs in practice because at the time of our visit, no pigs were slaughtered.
At the slaughterhouse Fuite Veal in Tubbergen it was very busy at the time of our visit. The company manager did not have time to accomodate our visit, but was open for a future visit from us. We have therefore made an appointment to return on May 10, 2017. We will then look at the supply, the waiting stall, the handling and the stunning and give advice on how to reduce the suffering of the calves.
We want to thank the slaughterhouses for their time and interest.