Florida Beef, Inc.: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2021 (USDA)

313.2

At approximately 13:38 hours, the Director of FSQA REDACTED alerted USDA of a non-ambulatory cow which was located in the chute near the knock box. As IPP observed the plant's attempt to coax the animal into the ambulatory position the animal fell backwards and was on it's back in the chute. Located behind the animal were three other cows which were being blocked by the chute divider which stops the animals from backing down the chute. Due to the lack of room between the non-ambulatory cow and the divider, the divider could not be released and the chain had to be cut with a grinding tool. This left the non-ambulatory cow upside down for approximately 8 minutes before it was knocked. Also the other three cows were subjected to increased excitement due to being crammed in the small space while having to endure the cutting of the chain in close proximity to them. 9 CFR 313.2 Handling of Livestock (a) states: "Driving of livestock from the unloading ramps to the holding pens and from the holding pens to the stunning area shall be done with a minimum of excitement and discomfort to the animals." Dr. REDACTED, SPHV