Judge backs modern hog slaughter system

By Blake Jackson

A federal judge has ruled in favor of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in its implementation of a new system for inspecting hogs at slaughterhouses. Animal rights and environmental groups had challenged the "New Swine Inspection System" (NSIS), claiming it violates laws and compromises animal welfare and food safety.

The groups argued that the NSIS allows slaughterhouse employees, rather than government inspectors, to perform certain tasks, potentially impacting both animal welfare and food safety. They also claimed the USDA acted arbitrarily and capriciously in implementing the system.

However, Judge Elizabeth Wolford of the Western District of New York found that the USDA had adequately justified its reasons for adopting the NSIS. She noted that the agency considered animal welfare concerns and provided a reasoned explanation for not adopting additional training for slaughterhouse employees.

While the judge acknowledged concerns about decreased staffing for humane handling under the NSIS, she ruled that the USDA's explanation for why this wouldn't be an issue was sufficient. Additionally, she found that the USDA had satisfactorily explained its reasons for shifting away from the traditional inspection system.

This ruling is a significant victory for the USDA and the meatpacking industry. However, the future of the NSIS remains uncertain. The USDA has extended a trial period for the system while an independent study is conducted to evaluate its impact on worker safety. Based on the results of this study, the USDA may make further modifications or even roll back the NSIS entirely.

Photo Credit: istock-srdjan-stepic