Certificação de bem-estar animal no setor de avicultura de corte do IFMG – Campus Bambuí: estudo de caso

In Brazil, poultry farming plays a fundamental role as a highly significant activity for agribusiness. In this context, beyond productive efficiency, ethics and animal welfare are essential concerns. Furthermore, the number of consumers who value and are concerned with the welfare of production animals is continuously increasing. Consequently, certification programs for animal-based products ensure animal welfare and guarantee product quality. Given the growing importance of this issue, this case study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of implementing animal welfare certification in the poultry sector at IFMG – Bambuí Campus. An interview was conducted with the sector's managers, and a questionnaire was applied, based on the standards of the certification company Humane Farm Animal Care. Out of 129 specific points analyzed, 16 did not meet the necessary standards for certification. Most noncompliance issues were related to animal processing on the slaughter line. Incompatibilities were also found in the areas of environment, management, and chicken transport. Based on the data analysis, it was observed that certification implementation is feasible in the campus's broiler poultry sector. However, certain adjustments would be necessary, both in terms of structural issues and in management and training practices.