Peter Dinklage asks fans to join him in making kind choices by not hurting animals or asking others to hurt animals for them. Read more.
"NY Ink" star and tattoo artist Ami James says that people should "never be silent" for animals in a new ad for PETA. Read more.
Animals and the planet depend on us, and actor Maggie Q wants us to know what we can do to help. Read more.
Animals are forced to endure the pain of having chemicals applied to their sensitive eyes and skin. Join Dave in buying only cruelty-free products. Read more.
Actor Taraji P. Henson wants us to show dogs the unconditional love that they so graciously give us. Make animals a part of your family. Read more.
Chicken Supplier Praised for Becoming First U.S. Company to Plan Conversion to Improved Slaughter Method Within a Year
For Immediate Release:October 22, 2010
Contact:Robbyn Brooks 757-622-7382
Fredericksburg, Pa. — Following talks with PETA, Fredericksburg, Pa.–based chicken producer Bell & Evans has pledged to implement within one year's time the most advanced slaughter technology for better animal welfare, a system called "slow induction anesthesia" (SIA). This pledge places the company at the forefront of the chicken industry with regard to animal welfare measures.
"By pledging to adopt a slaughter system that greatly reduces the suffering of chickens, Bell & Evans shows that animal welfare and good business go hand in hand," says PETA Executive Vice President Tracy Reiman. "Consumers are demanding that companies take steps to reduce animal suffering, and by listening to consumers' wishes, Bell & Evans has set a new standard in the chicken-supply industry."
SIA, also referred to as "controlled-atmosphere killing," is used to ensure that birds experience little discomfort while they are put to sleep; birds are not removed from the transportation drawers until after unconsciousness has been induced. Also appealing to the company is the fact that the system is simple and easy to use, operate, and clean. All issues associated with conventional practices are eliminated, ensuring optimum animal welfare and a superior, safe working environment. The birds do not suffer broken wings and legs while being shackled upside down and are never scalded to death in defeathering tanks, and there is no opportunity for workers to abuse birds. SIA also improves worker conditions because chickens do not struggle as slaughterhouse workers handle them.
"We are pleased to once again lead the way for the rest of the chicken industry," says Scott Sechler, Bell & Evans' chair and president. "Animal welfare is a key component of our business; we put our money where our mouth is because it's the right thing to do."
For more information, please visit PETA.org/cak and BellandEvans.com.