The Meat Institute has released updated Animal Welfare Audit standards and Recommended Animal Handling Guidelines, reinforcing its commitment to humane treatment, employee safety and continuous improvement.
President and CEO Julie Anna Potts said humane handling remains foundational to an ethical food system. Developed by the Institute’s Animal Welfare Committee in collaboration with Temple Grandin of Colorado State University, the audit is certified by the Professional Animal Auditor Certification Organization and supports the Protein PACT goal that 100% of members pass third-party audits by 2030. Updates include scored criteria for improvement, expanded bison audits and consistent vocalization scoring.
Changes will be highlighted at the Institute’s May conference in Kansas City, MO.
