The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: Helencus on August 04, 2011, 07:14:43 am

Title: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: Helencus on August 04, 2011, 07:14:43 am

Hi my first 3 porkers are off on Tuesday. The abattoir wanted them slapmarked so I've duly ordered the necessary but I'm worried as their shoulders are black. I told the girl this and she said she'd ask the vet and call me if any problem, no call so assume ok. I know the skin will go pink after the slaughter process but worried that they may be rejected if vet can't see mark..
Anyone any experience on this?

Title: Re: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: supplies for smallholders on August 04, 2011, 08:19:09 am

Hi,

If in doubt speak to the slaughterhouse again and ask to speak to the vet / inspector there.

The tattoo will be clearly visible after the scalding / de-hairing process.

Thanks

Title: Re: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: chickenfeed on August 04, 2011, 08:55:49 am

we have always used black in on all our pigs that go for slaughter they have included saddlebacks, hampshires, OSB's, GOS,tamworths, black kk's etc etc and so far never had a problem with the vets of slaughterman.

worth double checking if your really unsure but it should be fine.

Title: Re: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: robert waddell on August 04, 2011, 09:04:44 am

the problem here is black ink on black skin          you are right the skin changes to light or white after going through the scalding tank        the slap mark DOES not change if done correctly     and will be more visible      that is why they have not been in touch with you       it is a worry for people new to this to get it right but don't worry :farmer:

Title: Re: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: supplies for smallholders on August 04, 2011, 09:27:24 am

I think I posted some time ago that we had available a quantity of Red slapper ink that was produced to the same food grade regs. This would be visible prior to slaughter, but at the time there was little interest in it.

Thanks

Title: Re: Slap marking saddlebacks
Post by: Helencus on August 04, 2011, 09:50:24 pm

Thanks for the replies all.SFS it was me that ordered the slapper from you to reach me by Tues actually. The abattoir says it's ok so it should be I should stop worrying I guess.