LIVESTOCK PRODUCTION AND ANIMAL WELFARE: FROM FARM MANAGEMENT TO SLAUGHTER PRACTICES

Abstract

Animal welfare in livestock farming has gained prominence in recent decades, driven by ethical, environmental, and economic demands involving both the production and consumption of food of animal origin. The topic has become essential for the sustainable development of the sector, directly influencing the quality of products and their acceptance by the national and international markets. The growing demand for humane practices and stricter regulations has led producers and authorities to continually review and improve handling and slaughter protocols. This study aimed to comprehensively examine the current state of livestock practices, focusing on their impacts on animal welfare, from the time of raising on the farms to the time of slaughter. The research adopted a qualitative methodology based on a literature review, based on scientific articles and technical documents published between 2021 and 2025. Sources from the Lilacs, Capes Periodicals, Google Scholar, and Scielo databases were analyzed, in addition to case law from Brazilian Courts of Justice, to understand the legal and practical implications of the regulations in force. The research confirmed the interdependence between animal welfare, product quality and livestock sustainability, reinforcing the need for integrated public policies and continuous investment in training and infrastructure to consolidate the advances already achieved.