CATCHING AND TRANSPORTATION OF BIRDS TO THE PROCESSING PLANT

FEED WITHDRAWAL Birds are prevented from feed. It is practiced to prevent carcass contamination. Feed should be removed 8-hours prior to processing. During feed withdrawal maintain access of water prior to

catching.

CATCHING OF BIRDS

Catching and handling is almost being carried manually which causes stress to the birds.

An expert man can catch and crate 1000 birds per hour. Catching of birds must be carried out at sun-rise or sun-

set in order to minimize the stress.

MECHANICAL HARVESTING

Mechanical harvesting is practiced by some companies. Mechanical harvesting:

It is a process in which catching is carried out through machines. Importance of mechanical harvesting:

1. Mechanical harvesting reduce the stress and minimizes the chances of injury.

2. Mechanical harvesting is more economical and time saving.

PRECAUTIONS OF CATCHING Birds should be caught at night with dimmed light to

minimize movement of birds, thus birds can be easily tackled

This also prevents heat stress during summer season. However, companies recommend that second shift should

be caught at day light.

CONT…. All equipments must be raised to the ceiling immediately

prior to catching. Fans and electrical equipments must be covered properly

to prevent injury of the birds. Pick the birds gently and place them in cages to minimize

bruising. Birds must be protected from extreme weather on the

live haul of truck.

STRESS DUE TO DAY-TIME CATCHING During day time or hot weather broiler could become

heat- stressed easily. Types of stress:

1. There are two types of stress

2. Acute stress

3. Chronic stress

ACUTE STRESS Acute stress leads to PSE meat formation. Acute stress is commonly associated with pre- slaughter

handling e.g.

1. In stunning races

2. And uses of goads

CHRONIC STRESS Chronic stress leads to muscle fatigue. Chronic stress is commonly caused by:

1. Long periods without feed.

2. Long transport. As a result of Chronic stress DFD meat is formed. Acute stress causes the ascities and edema which lead to

carcass contamination.

PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT THE BIRDS FROM CHRONIC AND ACUTE STRESSTo prevent the birds from chronic and acute stress following precautions should be practiced. Periodically wet the birds with water hose during

loading and transport for evaporative cooling. During traveling prolonged and unnecessary stops should be

avoided. Evaporative cooling equipments are necessary at the haul

of processing plant while awaiting for processing.

CONTI….

Birds must be protected from wind chills, rain and snow during extremely cold weather.

During transport traps and wind breaks should be used at the front of the trailer.

Live haul should be scheduled so that birds are processed as soon as possible.

This can:

1. minimizes the weight loss.

2. Maximizes the yield.

3. Reduces DOA’S.

4. Reduces contamination & condemnation.

5. Maximizes the use of transport equipments.