The National Cattle Feeders’ Association is developing a feedlot animal care protocol that will be a companion to the Beef Cattle Code of Practice now in place nationally.
Casey Vander Ploeg, manager of policy and research for the association, said the protocol was prompted by food companies’ desire for assurances that animals are being properly cared for in feedlots.
Rather than have an array of policies and paperwork, the association decided to develop a plan that was consistent across the feedlot sector.
“Consumers and the public are increasingly concerned about where their food comes from and how it’s produced,” said Vander Ploeg.
Read Also
Beef check-off collection system aligns across the country
A single and aligned check-off collection system based on where producers live makes the system equal said Chad Ross, Saskatchewan Cattle Association chair.
“We want to be able as an industry to demonstrate that we take care of our animals and these are the things we do to ensure their welfare.”
The association has struck its own committee to develop the protocol rather than going through the National Farm Animal Care Council process of code development.
Vander Ploeg said handling facilities will be a big part of the protocol, as well as transportation in and out of the lot, loading and unloading and treatment of sick animals.
“We’re testing that right now at some feedlots, going through the guide and getting feedback on that.”
The protocol will be auditable by a third-party auditor so food companies can receive the needed assurances about animal welfare.
The national feeders association is also working on a study of regulations that impede the cattle feeding industry.
“There’s constant talk within the industry that government regulations surrounding the beef sector create a burden,” said Vander Ploeg.
“We’re going to be holding a series of focus groups in different provinces with producers, processors, veterinarians, people who are transporting livestock, getting them together … to tell us what are the regulations, federal and provincial, that are creating the biggest burden of compliance for them.”
Examples might include the higher cost of veterinary drugs in Canada relative to the United States or environmental regulations that make the country less competitive, he said.
The association will then analyze what those regulations cost the feedlot industry relative to their benefits.
“What are the regulations protecting us from on the risk side, and what does it cost the industry?” he asked.
“Then is there potential to reform those regulations, make them more friendly towards the business of cattle feeding?”
Vander Ploeg said the association is putting $100,000 toward the project, and other beef groups may also contribute.
