Do many large poultry slaughter establishments stun prior to sticking?

• A. Yes
• B. Only for export
• C. No
• D. Only for organic birds

Answer: (A)

Stunning before sticking is standard in modern poultry processing. When birds are stunned first, they are rendered unconscious, which greatly reduces pain and distress during the bleeding stage that follows. In large poultry slaughter establishments, this practice is routine because it supports humane handling, improves safety for workers by reducing flapping and crowding, and aligns with welfare expectations from consumers and many export markets. While there are some operations that may not stun due to specific regulatory or religious considerations, the prevailing approach in big plants is to stun prior to sticking. So, many large poultry slaughter establishments do stun before sticking.