Write a PREreview

Shechita is the method of slaughter prescribed by Jewish law. It involves a single swift continuous uninterrupted cut through both carotid arteries and jugular veins, the trachea, esophagus and other structures. Shechita in cattle causes a rapid, massive drop in blood volume and pressure that quickly eliminates cortical function causing near-instantaneous loss of consciousness (LOC) and loss of pain perception. Shechita has long been subjected to criticism, with recent concerns focusing on cattle claiming that animals remain conscious for a prolonged period after the cut. Critics argue that the vertebral arteries, which are not severed during Shechita, may continue supplying blood to the brain, thereby delaying LOC. However, a critical review of the scientific literature reveals that this theory is based on misinformation and fundamental misconceptions about the cerebral blood supply in cattle, misconceptions that have been repeatedly propagated within the current literature.