#Product Trends
Comparative Analysis of Emergency Mass Depopulation Strategies for Swine
The optimal method is one that works well, treats animals humanely, and fits the tools and resources on hand.
To meet the critical demand for effective mass depopulation strategies during foreign animal disease outbreaks in U.S. swine herds, researchers evaluated three methods under field conditions: water-based foam (WBF), nitrogen-infused foam (N₂F), and carbon dioxide gas (CO₂). Existing physical depopulation techniques approved by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) are not well-suited for large-scale commercial operations, highlighting the need for alternatives that prioritize both operational efficiency and animal welfare. In a recent study, researchers examined the performance, physiological responses, and behavioral indicators associated with each method to assess their efficacy and welfare implications. The findings aim to guide future updates to AVMA depopulation protocols.
