Video or other electronic monitoring or recording devices are not only permitted but encouraged in federally inspected meat and poultry processing plants, and now new guidelines highlight the government’s expectation for use of such equipment.
The compliance guidelines issued last week — “Compliance Guidelines for Use of Video or Other Electronic Monitoring or Recording Equipment in Federally Inspected Establishments” –are intended to help processors meet FSIS record-keeping requirements and add security, in addition to monitoring animal welfare, inventory and safe-handling procedures.
“The recommendations included in this compliance guide may further ensure the humane handling of livestock, as well as maintain the safety of our food supply and the integrity of federally inspected plants,” said FSIS Administrator Al Almanza in a news release.
The guidelines are recommendations and not a regulatory requirement. The guide is available online here.
