BEM-ESTAR NA BOVINOCULTURA DE CORTE: UMA REVISÃO

Abstract

The beef cattle production system is characterized as extremely important both nationally and internationally, thus consolidating Brazil as one of the main protagonists in the sector. However, the demand for improvements in the production chain stands out, particularly with regard to animal welfare, with the aim of improving the quality of the meat produced. The objective of this study was to employ the scientific knowledge base to conduct a review, with special emphasis on the relevance of well-being in the context of productivity in beef cattle farming. The study is based on a review of scientific literature whose adopted methodology involved a descriptive analysis of animal welfare in beef cattle farming, conducted through research on the scientific platforms "Google Scholar", "Scielo" and "Portal de Periódicos da Capes ". Subsequently, the publications were selected using criteria based on relevance and timeliness. Various topics related to animal welfare were covered, such as fundamental concepts, legislation, management of confined animals, good practices in loading, unloading, transportation and vaccination, in addition to the influence of these practices on meat quality. Meat quality is influenced by internal and external factors, including animal handling and transportation practices. The use of good animal welfare practices not only reduces animal suffering, but also contributes to obtaining high-quality meat, avoiding technological defects and ensuring adequate conversion of muscle into meat.