Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

The aim of this study was to review current legislation in Sweden regarding the slaughter, hunting and other methods for killing European bison ( Bison bonasus ), in order to illustrate problems related to slaughter of animals in wildlife enclosures for food production. In Sweden the European bison is no longer a part of the wild fauna, the present herds living in Sweden today are being kept in wildlife enclosures or in zoos for public exhibition. The results of the study suggest problems due to the different regulations. There is also a need for consultation between the various regulations in order for the current legislation to be interpreted correctly by the parties involved. Today there is a clear problem regarding the legislation, which results in the definition of the species European bison not being harmonized, and that there are different rules for hunting, slaughter and other killing of the European bison when the intention for the meat is to end up in the food chain when there is exchange of hunting and slaughter. In view of the apparent problem of applying the legislation as it is today, there is therefore a great need for a consultation between the relevant authorities that issued the legislation relating to hunting, slaughter and other killing of European bison. The result of the study should be seen as a contribution that illuminates a gap in the legislation that is of concern. Based on this work, it is possible to review existing legislation to ensure animal welfare and food safety. This applies especially to the requirements at the time of slaughter and classification of the species European bison.