When discussing stress, the nervous and endocrine (hormone)
systems are of primary focus. External and internal stimuli are
channelled via the nervous system to the hypothalamus in
Meat technology update
1/11 – January 2011
MEAT TECHNOLOGY UPDATE
Cutting edge technology for the meat processing industry
Effect of slaughter method on
animal welfare and meat quality
the brain. Once a stressor has been perceived, two distinct pathways
involving interlocking physiological reactions are evoked. The first
pathway encompasses nervous stimulation of the adrenal system which
is responsible for elevation in circulating adrenalin and noradrenalin
or the ‘flight or fight’ mechanism. Although this system may have a
dramatic physiological impact, it is short term. When it fails to cope with
the stressor(s), the second pathway—hormonal system—is induced, and
circulating adrenocorticotrophin hormone (ACTH) and corticosteroids
will increase. These stress-related hormones may evoke glycogenolysis
which is closely associated with muscle changes in stressed cattle.