Maple Leaf Foods installs controlled atmosphere stunning technology at Edmonton poultry facility
The CAS technology is a humane system that will ensure birds are fully insensible prior to processing.
Maple Leaf Foods, Canada, announced plans to invest approximately $28 million to transition its Edmonton, Canada, poultry processing facility to world-class controlled atmosphere stunning (CAS) technology, reflecting its commitment to animal care, the poultry sector and value-added branded fresh chicken.
While it implements this technology, Maple Leaf will convert its transportation, lairage and receiving area and handling systems to optimize rest time and create a climate-controlled environment. The new lairage system will enhance lighting, air quality and temperature control, allowing chickens to rest comfortably and reduce stress. The CAS technology is a humane system that will ensure birds are fully insensible prior to processing. The conversion will result in a 26,000-square-foot expansion, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2019.