carbon dioxide stunning

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) is a colorless gas with a faint odor and sour taste. It is a significant greenhouse gas contributing to global warming, though it is a minor component of Earth's atmosphere. CO₂ is produced through the combustion of carbon-containing materials, fermentation, and animal respiration, and is used by plants for photosynthesis.1

In meat processing, CO₂ stunning is a method used to render livestock unconscious before slaughter, ensuring a humane process and improving meat quality. This method involves exposing the animal to a mixture of CO₂ gas, which acts as an anesthetic. Other stunning methods include mechanical (using a bolt) and electrical stunning. Proper preslaughter handling is also crucial to reduce stress, which can negatively impact meat quality.23