A new player in Bavaria's poultry market is set to begin slaughtering old hens under CO₂ stunning, amidst a shortage of local slaughtering capacity following the closure of the major Buckl slaughterhouse.
The closure of the Buckl slaughterhouse in Wassertrüdingen, which was the largest facility for slaughtering old laying hens in southern Germany, has put poultry farmers in Bavaria under significant strain. The facility, known for its capacity to process 60,000 old hens a day, was vital to the local poultry market. With Buckl's closure, farmers have been forced to transport their hens long distances, primarily to Poland, for slaughter, causing serious distress for the animals due to the stressful travel involved.
In response to this gap in the market, TLC Landgeflügel GmbH, based in Massing, Lower Bavaria, has announced plans to enter the old hen slaughter market. Patrick, a representative from the company, stated they will expand their operations to include not only broiler chickens but also old hens and parent stock. This new venture aims to address the local demand for humane slaughter methods, incorporating CO₂ stunning to ensure better animal welfare during slaughter.
The introduction of TLC Landgeflügel GmbH into the old hen market reflects a growing trend towards more humane slaughter practices in Germany, especially in light of recent animal welfare scandals. As consumers become increasingly concerned about the origins and treatment of their food, this development may signal a shift in the industry towards improving animal welfare standards and reducing reliance on distant slaughter facilities. Overall, the move could provide a much-needed boost to local farmers while also addressing consumer demand for ethically-sourced poultry products.
