JFHMS Quality Assurance Practice Exam

What could be an outcome of improper meat handling prior to slaughter?

1. Higher meat quality

2. Less risk of spoilage

3. Decreased consumer trust

4. Improved animal welfare

The correct answer is: Decreased consumer trust

Improper meat handling prior to slaughter can significantly impact consumer perception and trust. When meat is not handled according to safety and hygiene standards, it raises concerns about contamination and foodborne illnesses. If consumers believe that the meat they purchase may pose health risks due to improper handling, their trust in the brand, retailer, or producer diminishes. This erosion of trust can result in a decrease in sales and customer loyalty, as consumers are more likely to seek out safer, higher-quality alternatives. In contrast, higher meat quality would be more likely to result from proper handling, not improper. Similarly, improper handling typically leads to an increased risk of spoilage rather than a reduction in that risk. Lastly, improved animal welfare is generally associated with best practices in animal treatment rather than the poor standards that would result from improper meat handling. Thus, the outcome of decreased consumer trust aligns most closely with the consequences of such poor practices.