The Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued Directive 6910.1, Revision 1: District Veterinary Medical Specialist (DVMS) – Work Methods, reports the American Meat Institute (AMI).

This directive provides instruction to DVMSs regarding the work methods they are to use when conducting humane handling verification assessments at both livestock and poultry establishments. The DVMS is also to assess whether a facility has implemented a systematic approach to humane handling and slaughter, which is a voluntary programme. If there is no formal programme, the DVMS is to discuss with establishment management the four steps involved in implementing a systematic approach as discussed in the Federal Register Notice, Humane Handling and Slaughter Requirements and the Merits of a Systematic Approach to Meet Such Requirements (9 September 2004).

Some of the core criteria covered in humane handling verification assessments include evaluating stunning practices, unloading procedures, electric prod use, and slips and falls. The verification form to be completed by a DVMS is similar in nature to the AMI Animal Handling Guidelines with regard to acceptable limits for specific core criteria.

This directive cancels FSIS Directive 6910.1, District Veterinary Medical Specialist (DVMS) – Work Methods, dated 13 April 2009.

Further Reading

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You can view the full directive by clicking here.