Beef Research School video: Beef Care Code essentials in 10 minutes

Posted on November 21, 2013 by Beef Research

In the latest episode of the Beef Research School, Ryder Lee with the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA) gives us a run down of the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle. Ryder explains:

how science, practically and societal expectations were considered
important changes in requirements, including pain management when castrating or dehorning older animals
how cattle producers are responding to the new Code
CCA’s plans to expand the Verified Beef Production^TM program to include animal care, biosecurity and environmental stewardship Continue reading →

Q&A on the science that informed a renewed Beef Code

Posted on September 19, 2013 by Beef Research

Following an extensive process that began in 2010, the Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Beef Cattle is now available. The Beef Code is an important tool for the Canadian beef cattle industry to educate producers and to support the industry when challenged by animal care concerns. The previous edition of the Beef Code was published in 1991.

The renewal process was led by National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC) and followed the NFACC code development process set out for the different species of farmed animals. Continue reading →

It Happened Again: Internet Video of Mistreatment of Cows

Posted on September 18, 2012 by Beef Research

This is a guest post written by the CCA’s Ryder Lee, in collaboration with Reynold Bergen, BCRC Science Director.

California processor Central Valley Meat Co. is the subject of a recent Internet animal cruelty video released by anti-meat organization, ‘Compassion over Killing.’ The video captured instances of inhumane handling practices that are not condoned by the beef and cattle industry or the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA). The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) suspended operations at the company pending investigation of the animal welfare issues cited in the video. The plant reopened after federal officials approved corrective action plans to improve the treatment of animals. As a result of the video, major customers, including McDonald’s Corp., cancelled or suspended contracts with the company. Continue reading →