JFHMS Quality Assurance Practice Exam

Why is it important to monitor the withdrawal period before harvesting an animal?

1. To ensure quality of meat

2. To avoid legal issues

3. For animal welfare

4. To prevent medication residue

The correct answer is: To prevent medication residue

Monitoring the withdrawal period before harvesting an animal is crucial primarily to prevent medication residue in the meat. When an animal is treated with medications, particularly antibiotics or other veterinary drugs, there is a designated period during which the substances are processed and eliminated from the animal's system. This withdrawal period is essential to ensure that any potential residues are reduced to safe levels before the animal is slaughtered for meat. If this period is not respected, there is a risk that consumers may ingest meat containing harmful medication residues, leading to health risks and potentially affecting food safety. Ensuring proper adherence to the withdrawal period helps maintain the safety and quality of the meat supply, ultimately protecting both public health and the integrity of the food system. While ensuring the quality of meat, avoiding legal issues, and considering animal welfare are important aspects of animal husbandry and food production, the dominant concern in the context of monitoring withdrawal periods specifically relates to eliminating medication residues and safeguarding consumer health.