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Slap marking is an important method of identifying pigs. These days, besides identifying pigs for payment the slap mark is used to categorise the pig for ZNCP salmonella scores and the British Pig Health Scheme, says Paul Thompson, veterinary consultant to pig-breeding company ACMC Ltd.
If slaps are illegible — with carcasses moving on the slaughter-line at speed — then it can lead to misidentification. Common problems with illegible slap marks can be traced back to lack of ink, worn slapper pads, bent or missing pins forming the numbers and worn pins. On some farms problems have been seen recently where, over time, the slap marker itself bends slightly away from its original shape so only parts of the slap digits make contact with the pig’s skin.
If abattoirs or BPHS/BPEX report problems with slap marks it is necessary to look at all these different aspects. Producers should ask for feedback from the abattoir to ensure the problem is sorted, advises Mr Thompson.
www.acmc.co.uk
