An evaluation of the jarvis electric stunner for cattle

Summary

The Jarvis hand-held electric stunner for cattle was tested of four steers. With each animal an electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded before and after the stun and video cameras were used to record animal movements during and after the stun.

It was found that the stunner could produce a stun which, based on current interpretations of animal responses (electronplectic fit) and EEG traces, would be judged as being effective and humane.

The stunner should only be used in conjunction with an effective head restraint system. The use of the device in further trials, under supervision, is justified.

Objectives

Jarvis limited have developed a new handheld electric stunning. The objective of this project is to extensively test the devices humanness on a small number of animals enabling the device to later enter extensive trials in commercial settings.

Key findings

It has been demonstrated that the Jarvis Electric Stunner for cattle can produce a stun which, based on current interpretations of animal responses and the EEG traces, would be judged as being effective and humane.

When tested, the device was set for a specific current flow and a specific application time. Modification to these or other parameters could change its effectiveness.

The use of this device in further trials was found to be justified.

Benefits to industry

This Jarvis hand held electric stunner has the potential to replace the current mushroom head concussion stunner used at the time during the Halal slaughter process.

The Jarvis stunner offers the potential of full Halal compliance compared to concussion stunning methods which have a percentage of skull fracturing which disqualifies the animal from Halal certification and limits market access.

MLA action

Further MLA work conducted has examined Halal slaughter of cattle including investigations into the stunning and sticking of calves in 2006 and a review of stunning and Halal slaughter in 2009. 

Future research

This was an initial justification study proving that the new Jarvis Electric Stunner was a humane device to use for cattle stunning. The next steps should include testing the device capabilities on commercial trials with larger throughputs.