The UK Government has blocked the European Union (EU) proposals compelling retailers to introduce labels on meat informing whether prior to slaughtering, the animal had been stunned.
In June 2010, the European parliament approved the labeling plan to restrict the unlabeled halal and kosher meat in the food chain.
Due to concerns from Muslim and Jewish groups, the government opposed the EU measures, and the ministers put forth the proposals for review once again, while findings are expected to be released next month.
Fears were expressed by the groups stating that proper meat labeling might discriminate against them.
Most of the animal welfare groups have welcomed the proposal saying that it would be a positive step to identify whether animals had been stunned before slaughter.
British Veterinary Association president Robin Hargreaves was quoted by theguardian as saying that no animal slaughtered by the kosher method is pre-stunned.
"Well over 80% of halal slaughter in the UK is pre-stunned, which means the animal is rendered unconscious before the throat is cut," Hargreaves added.
