How should cattle be transported to maintain quality and welfare?

Transporting cattle in well-ventilated vehicles with adequate space for movement is essential for ensuring their quality and welfare during transportation. Proper ventilation helps regulate temperature and allows for the circulation of fresh air, which is critical for the animals' respiratory health. Additionally, providing sufficient space for movement reduces stress and the risk of injury, enabling cattle to maintain their natural posture and behaviors during transit.

Ensuring animals are not overly crowded helps to mitigate the stress associated with close confinement, leading to a calmer and healthier state during transport. This approach aligns with best practices in animal welfare and BQA standards, which emphasize the need to handle and move cattle in a way that promotes their well-being and minimizes stress, injury, and suffering. By adhering to these principles, producers can help maintain the quality of the beef produced from these animals.