FSIS Ante-mortem inspections are performed on every animal to be slaughtered. Which of the following is a reason for this inspection?

• A. To monitor packaging integrity.
• B. To determine the health status of the animals and fitness for slaughter.
• C. To estimate meat yield.
• D. To certify organic labeling.

Answer: (B)

Ante-mortem inspections are about assessing the animal’s health and whether it is fit for slaughter. Inspectors look for signs of disease, injury, or other conditions that would make slaughter inappropriate or unsafe, ensuring only healthy animals proceed in the process. This step helps protect both animal welfare and meat safety by catching issues before slaughter. Packaging integrity is checked later and relates to the product after slaughter, not before. Estimating meat yield comes from post-slaughter carcass evaluation. Organic labeling is a separate program and not determined by ante-mortem inspection.