Section 1246.3 - Method of Humane Slaughter of Poultry(a) The Department has determined that the following methods are acceptable and practical humane methods for use in the stunning and slaughter of poultry. (1) Carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or argon used separately or in combination to produce gas-induced hypercapnea, hypoxia or anoxia.(3) Electrocution to cardiac arrest.(4) Captive bolt (ostrich and rabbit only).(5) Cervical dislocation.(6) Carotid artery severance.(8) Other methods as approved by the Department.(b) Any of the above methods may be used in combination to effect the most humane slaughter of poultry.(c) Each poultry slaughter establishment shall be responsible for the selection of safe equipment and the safe use of such equipment.(d) Establishments selecting gas, electrical stunning, or electrocution method shall install all equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications, or under the supervision of a licensed engineer. Such installations shall comply with all applicable building and safety codes as specified by local and state government.(e) Nothing in this section shall be interpreted to contradict provisions of subsections (c) and (d) of this section. Poultry shall be stunned, rendered unconscious, or killed before being bled by simultaneous severance of both carotid arteries or by decapitation. Carotid artery severance and decapitation are not approved methods of stunning.Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 3, § 1246.3
1. Renumbering of former section 1245.4 to new section 1246.3, including amendment of section and NOTE, filed 3-19-2009; operative 4-18-2009 (Register 2009, No. 12). Note: Authority cited: Sections 407 and 19501.5, Food and Agricultural Code. Reference: Sections 19501 and 19501.5, Food and Agricultural Code.
1. Renumbering of former section 1245.4 to new section 1246.3, including amendment of section and Note, filed 3-19-2009; operative 4-18-2009 (Register 2009, No. 12).