Infrared cameras may be able to identify stressed or sick pigs before they are taken to the packing plant, and may even be able to predict a tendency for poor meat quality. This would improve swine herd health and reduce food safety risks. The software used can identify high body temperatures which are often indicative of stress or sickness. The back of the pigs is where the average temperature would be observed and the eye region is more sensitive in responding to disease and temperature changes. A common meat problem is pale, soft and exudative (PSE) pork which is often related to transport and handling at high temperatures. If pigs with this tendency can be identified, they can be rested longer in pens which should improve their meat quality. Real-time data collection still needs to be automated. Infrared technology can assess the animals temperature in a completely non-invasive way. The cost for this technology has been decreasing, with a handheld camera available for $1000. Protection of Canada’s swine export market and swine herd health improvements could be seen using infrared cameras with research results near completion.
Infrared Camera Tech Measured as Tool for Swine Health (full article)
