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Portable Meat Production and Retailing Facility (P-MART): A Novel Technology for Clean Meat Production from Sheep and Goats

P. S Girish , D Priyanka, Reddy Vijay Bhaskar, K Sudheer, R Vikram, Jawla Jyoti, N Raveendhar, C Ramakrishna, S. B. Barbuddhe

Abstract

Context. An adequate infrastructure facility is a prerequisite for achieving clean and hygienic meat production from sheep and goats. In India, most of the meat is produced by small-scale producers who cannot afford to establish large-scale abattoirs. Aim. The study aimed to develop and test an innovative Portable Meat Production and Retailing Facility (P-MART), designed to meet the specific requirements of small-scale sheep and goat slaughter operations processing less than ten animals per day. Methods. The designing and fabrication of P-MART comprises of animal resting facility; slaughtering and dressing facility; meat cutting and packaging facility; meat retailing facility; and waste management facility. The microbiological evaluation was conducted by collecting meat samples/ swabs (n=6) from various stages of the slaughter of sheep and goats in P-MART. The quality of the liquid effluent from the slaughter process (n=6) of P-MART was evaluated for different parameters. The gastrointestinal waste was subjected to aerobic composting and compost samples (n=6) were analysed for different parameters. The P-MART liquid waste was subjected to anaerobic biomethanation (n=6) and the quality of the liquid fertilizer was assessed for different parameters. The Air Quality Index in P-MART was analyzed in alignment with Environmental Protection Training and Research Institute (EPTRI) standards compliance with National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Key results. The P-MART demonstrated effectiveness in addressing small-scale slaughterhouse needs. Microbiological analysis confirmed the absence of harmful organisms like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria in meat, surfaces and water, showcasing high hygiene standards. The aerobic composting of gastrointestinal waste resulted in composting with nutrient levels that met recommended standards and the bio-methanation of liquid waste produced nutrient-rich liquid fertilizer and biogas for cooking. Air quality parameters, including PM10, PM2.5, SO2 and NO2 were within permissible limits, ensuring a safe environment. Conclusions: P-MART's design minimizes water use and supports humane slaughter, sustainable waste management and environmental compliance. An application for an Indian patent was submitted (Patent application No. 202111016135) to protect intellectual property. The technology was commercialized to enable upscaling and marketing. Implications. The P-MART can improve livelihoods for small-scale meat producers by offering affordable and hygienic slaughter facilities. Its sustainable waste management practices enhance public health and environmental protection.

AN24351  Accepted 31 December 2024

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