WASHINGTON – The growing importance of animal welfare in the meat processing industry is reflected in the agenda for the Meat Institute’s 2024 Animal Care & Handling Conference, slated for May 16-17 at the Kansas City Marriott Downtown in Kansas City, Mo.

With can’t-miss presentations from one of the world’s leading experts on animal welfare, Dr. Temple Grandin, professor of animal science at Colorado State University, this year’s conference program addresses the connection between animal handling during production and its impact on consumer buying behaviors as well as its importance to retailers and fast-food chain operators. Presentations during the two-day event also will explore the role of genetics in improving animal welfare as well as how the proper design of animal handling facilities can ensure the safety of workers and minimize the stress on livestock.

The agenda for the event includes a pre-conference presentation by Grandin on May 16, The ABCs of Animal Handling, which provides a foundation for learning the basics of animal welfare, intended for newcomers to the industry with insight from one of the most-recognized authorities on the topic.

Following Grandin’s pre-conference morning session, the event will officially kick off with Lori Rakoczy, associate principal with Technomic, who will provide the perspective of consumers when it comes to animal welfare.

The first day will also include a panel discussion with representatives of leading retail and foodservice companies discussing the importance of animal welfare as well as presentations about how genetics influences livestock behavior, a discussion on regulatory issues and compliance (including Prop 12).

The afternoon’s agenda includes networking opportunities over lunch followed by bullet sessions that will cover a variety of topics for attendees to choose from. A keynote address by Anne-Marie Roerink, principal with 210 Analytics, focused on consumer trends will conclude the afternoon presentations, followed by a welcome reception and poster sessions featuring animal welfare-focused research from leading universities.

The second day of the event features more experts discussing topical issues, including: Enforcement Action Situation Panel; Facility Design; and Handling Programs as well as more bullet sessions and networking opportunities. The program concludes at noon on May 17.

Registration for the event is $649 and details about the agenda, speakers and lodging are available here.