Wilkes Abattoir, 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 Wilkes Abattoir, LLC slaughterhouse establishment in 2023.
You can also see other establishments that were non-compliant in 2023.
313.16(a)(1)
At approximately 9:00AM during slaughter at Wilkes Abattoir (M19511), a Scottish Highland Steer was brought into the knock box. The steer was not able to enter the headgate due to the size of its horns. However, it was secured as best as possible with a second gate latched behind it. It was determined that the rifle was needed to render the animal unconscious. After the initial shot the animal immediately dropped but continued to move its head left and right, as well as blink to excess. Upon recognition of these properties, REDACTED (plant manager) instructed the employee to administer a secondary shot with the captive bolt gun. After the second shot was applied the animal ceased to move entirely. I did not take regulatory control due to the employee immediately taking action to render the animal unconscious and immediately providing preventative measures. After discussing the incident with Mr. REDACTED it was determined that the steer moved his head slightly up at the time of the initial shot. This action caused the shot to be too low. Mr. REDACTED also stated that to prevent any incidents in the future they plan to install a new knock box. With the new box they hope to be able to secure and stabilize the heads more efficiently. The replacement is set to take place on November 11, 2022. REDACTED (Plant Manager) was notified of the non-compliance and failure to comply with 9 CFR 313.16(a)(1).
