Given that the death of some pregnant animals is unavoidable, the fetus can be used to serve science, and generate jobs. This contribution benefits research and development and should not be underestimated.
Do the animals suffer?
The collection of the blood is done without causing pain to the fetus. The fetus’s life ends through oxygen depletion, generally agreed to be a gentle method of life termination. Cell culture technology can reduce the use of live animals in science. Research is also being done to produce meat by cell culture, which could… Read more »
Why kill pregnant animals ?
The slaughtering of pregnant animals is, in most cases, an unplanned event. The frequency depends on farming techniques. In most cases, the condition of gestation is unknown; especially where animals are produced naturally; in the case of cattle moving freely around, grass fed, heifers and steers together. No cows are killed with the main purpose… Read more »
What about animal welfare ?
OIE’s guidelines for animal welfare are respected in the countries where the FBS is collected (OIE Terrestrial Code 7.5 Slaughter of Animals). Link to the EFSA explanation : EFSA explains animal welfare.
What is the OIE (World Organization for Animal Health)?
The OIE (World Organization for Animal Health) is an intergovernmental organization created in 1924. In 2011, the OIE totaled 178 Member Countries and Territories. Its missions are: To ensure transparency in the global animal disease situation To collect, analyze and disseminate veterinary scientific information To provide expertise and encourage international solidarity in the control of… Read more »