Regional Slaughter Network renews Animal Welfare Certification, announces António Ventura - Communication

Secretaria Regional da Agricultura e Alimentação

The Azores Regional Slaughter Network has renewed its Animal Welfare Certification (AWC), awarded by the Institute of Agrifood Research and Technology (IRTA), based on European Welfare Quality standards, announced the Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura.

The audit conducted by AENOR confirmed that the slaughterhouses on the islands of Terceira, São Miguel, Graciosa and Flores comply with the requirements, ensuring practices that reduce stress and suffering for animals during reception, handling, stunning and slaughter. The Santa Maria Slaughterhouse has not yet collected the minimum sample of animals required for the audit; however, the certificate has been extended until February 2026.

António Ventura emphasises the importance of this certification for the regional agrifood sector: "The renewal of the Animal Welfare certification is a milestone that demonstrates the Azores' commitment to responsible and sustainable practices," he stressed.

For the government official, "this international recognition enhances the value of Azorean meat and strengthens consumer confidence."

He continued: "At the same time, it ensures that our slaughterhouses follow strict animal welfare standards. It is an essential step towards consolidating the Azores' image as a benchmark for quality food production."

In this context, the renewal of Animal Welfare certification in Azorean slaughterhouses is of strategic importance, not only ensuring compliance with European standards but also strengthening market confidence and adding value to meat produced in the Region. This step brings the Azores into line with international trends in terms of responsible and sustainable consumption, where respect for animals is regarded as an integral part of food quality.