Impacto do manejo pré-abate na qualidade da carne suína: avaliação em frigorífico industrial

Abstract

Brazil is the fourth largest pork producer in the world, playing a relevant role in the global production and export chain. However, competitiveness in the international market requires high quality pork, directly influenced by animal welfare and the reduction of stress during pre-slaughter handling. Stress, caused by adverse conditions such as inadequate transport and fasting, can result in undesirable changes, such as PSE (pale, flaccid and exudative) and DFD (dark, hard and dry) meats. These factors highlight the importance of good management practices that consider both the behavioral characteristics of pigs and environmental conditions to

optimize the final quality of the product and meet market demands. Good pre- slaughter handling practices are essential to ensure high quality meat, reducing the

negative impacts of stress on characteristics such as water retention, texture and appearance. During the internship at Frigo Suíno Sol Nascente, it was possible to follow the entire production flowchart, understanding how appropriate practices and monitoring of each stage guarantee the obtaining of a final product that meets hygienic-sanitary standards and the expectations of the consumer market. Animal welfare is, therefore, a central pillar for the competitiveness and sustainability of pig production in Brazil.