Midsouth Packers, LLC: Non-Compliance to Humane Livestock Handling in 2023 (USDA)
See the detail of the non-compliance of humane livestock handling that the USDA observed at the Midsouth Packers, LLC slaughterhouse establishment in 2023.
You can also see other establishments that were non-compliant in 2023.
313.16(a)(1)
On August 8, 2023 at approximately 7:45 AM, IPP observed the following humane handling noncompliance at Mid-South Packers, #REDACTED. A mature Holstein cow was driven into the knock box and secured. The operator aimed at her head with a 22 Magnum Rifle, and shot, but the cow was not rendered unconscious, as she continued to stand and look around. There were no vocalizations or blood at the nostrils. The operator took immediate corrective actions by delivering a second shot to the cows head with the same firearm which rendered it unconscious. A Tag was placed on the knock box (B 45943680). This non-compliance violates 9 CFR 313.16(a)(1). On postmortem examination, it was confirmed that there were two points of entry in the cow’s head. Plant management was immediately notified of the non-compliance.
313.16(a)(1)
IIC and PHV observed establishment attempt to stun an animal. The 1st shot did not stun the animal. Establishment quickly applied second stun which rendered the unconscious. The animal did not vocalize and very minimal movement after 1st shot. IIC and PHV informed both of their supervisor.
313.16(a)(1)
On Tuesday, January 3, 2023, at approximately 11:15am at Midsouth Packers Establishment M47028, IPP observed a humane handling non-compliance during routine slaughter of cattle. The animal was restrained in the kill box, the operator shot the firearm to render the steer unconscious. The steer stood there shaking his head after the first blow to the head, still conscious (no vocalization but eye, head movement and breathing). Immediately the establishment employee took corrective action by delivering a second blow that rendered the steer unconscious. Due to it being the last cow of the day, no reject tag was placed on the stunning area and slaughter proceeded. This non-compliance violates regulation 313.16 (a) (1). On postmortem examination it was confirmed that there were two points of entry into the steers skull.
