Foetal wastage in Abattoirs and its implications: Situation report from Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the magnitude and implications f foetal wastage resulting from the slaughtering of pregnant cows in Lafenwa - Abeokuhl and ljebu-Igbo abattoirs in Ogun State between 1984 and 1989. Results show that one foetus is wasted for every 8 cattle slaughtered in the abattoirs. This has the ~rnve effects of reducing over time the herd size and revenue of owners, the access of most Nigerians to a nutritive source of dietary protein and therefore the ability to attain the internationally recommended protein intake level per caput per day.

Keywords: Slaughter, pregnant cows, foetal wastage/recovery.