BVA: Vets support better information on animal slaughter methods

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has highlighted research showing a broad consensus among vets in favour of providing more consumer information on animal slaughter.

A survey carried out by the organisation revealed that 94 percent of vets believe UK consumers of meat and fish should be better informed about slaughter methods. Only 11 percent believe the public understands the difference between stunned and non-stunned slaughter.

Moreover, nine out of ten vets said they would not buy meat from non-stunned animals as consumers, whereas 97 percent would buy meat and fish labelled as pre-stunned at slaughter.

The BVA has stated that labelling to clearly explain methods of slaughter would help all consumers make informed choices about the products they wish to buy.

BVA president John Blackwell said: "We are working hard to ensure our e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures to show the strength of feeling on this important welfare issue that affects millions of animals every year."

The association is currently leading a campaign to end non-stun slaughter across the UK. Currently, there is a legal exemption allowing animals to be slaughtered without stunning for certain religious communities.