How are mice frozen for use as feed? - briefly
Mice intended for feed are humanely euthanized, then quickly cooled in a blast freezer or ice‑salt brine bath to reach –20 °C within minutes, after which they are stored at –20 °C or lower until distribution. Packaging in sealed, insulated containers prevents thawing and maintains microbial safety.
How are mice frozen for use as feed? - in detail
Mice intended for animal feed are produced in controlled breeding colonies. After reaching the appropriate weight (typically 15–25 g), the animals are humanely euthanized, most commonly by CO₂ exposure or cervical dislocation, in accordance with veterinary guidelines. Immediate post‑mortem handling includes:
- Removal of fur and any external contaminants by brief rinsing with chilled, food‑grade water.
- Placement of whole carcasses on a sanitized stainless‑steel tray.
- Transfer to a blast‑freezer set to –40 °C or lower within minutes of euthanasia to prevent autolysis and bacterial growth.
The rapid freezing method employs forced air circulation that reduces core temperature to –20 °C within 30 minutes. After the initial freeze, the specimens are packaged in airtight, moisture‑proof bags or vacuum‑sealed pouches to avoid freezer burn and oxidation. Labels indicate species, batch number, and date of processing.
Long‑term storage occurs in commercial‑grade freezers maintained at –20 °C to –30 °C. Inventory rotation follows a first‑in, first‑out system, ensuring that older stock is used before newer deliveries. When feed is required, a measured portion is removed from the freezer and thawed in a refrigerated environment (2–4 °C) for 12–24 hours, or alternatively, placed in a sealed container under running cold water for rapid thawing. Thawed mice are used within 24 hours and any remaining material is discarded to prevent spoilage.
Quality control includes periodic microbiological testing of samples, verification of temperature logs, and visual inspection for signs of decomposition. Compliance with local animal welfare and food‑safety regulations is documented throughout the process.