Slakt

Slakt is the process of killing animals for meat or for population control, typically in a controlled, sanitary setting such as a slaughterhouse or farm. In many Scandinavian languages slakt is the common term for slaughter, while in English the equivalent term is slaughter.

Most slaughtering procedures aim to render the animal unconscious quickly before bleeding. Common methods include electrical stunning, mechanical stunning (e.g., captive bolt), and humane restraint followed by exsanguination. Some species are slaughtered without prior stunning under religious guidelines, but many jurisdictions require stunning for welfare, with exemptions restricted to certain religious practices. After stunning, the carcass is bled and processed into meat, with facilities designed to minimize stress and contamination.

Slaughter is regulated by animal welfare and food-safety laws in most countries. Regulations cover handling, stunning methods, facility design, transport, and veterinary inspection. In the European Union, national authorities oversee compliance with welfare and hygiene rules; in the United States, the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) administers federal inspection and safety standards.

Historically, the rise of centralized slaughterhouses in the 19th and 20th centuries improved meat hygiene and supply but also sparked welfare concerns. Cultural and religious practices have shaped slaughter techniques and certification schemes. Contemporary discussions often balance animal