Ritual slaughter: animal friendly slaughter and protection of animals in Islam

A report is given on history and procedures of ritual slaughter from the point of view of a moslem representative. The term sacrifice and the religious meaning of the offering feast are explained on the basis of the abrahamian tradition. The social aspect of ritual slaughter is that two third of the slaughtered animal are given to the poor or served as meal to guests and relatives. One third is saved for the own family only. The islamic religion acknowleges the responsibility of man for animals as creatures of god whose life and well-being have to be protected, nobody is allowed to subject animals to pain, suffering and damage without a sound reason. The retual slaughter aim at complete debleeding. Blood is symbols life and soul and the breath of life. It must leave the body completely before consumption because it is not allowed to eat animals alive. Electric stunning is allowed if the animal is unconcious and not dead. The consumption of dead animals is forbidden by religion. It is recommended to introduce more veterinarian expert knowledge in the discussion.