Effect of very low pulsed direct currents at high frequency on the return of neck tension in broilers

Broiler chickens were stunned electrically for one second or to seconds wit h a unipolar pulsed direct current (Dc) at 550 Hz. The effectiveness of the stun was assessed from the birds' behaviour. All the birds were stunned ef fectively when more than 15 mA true root mean square oc was applied for eit her period. An increase in the duration of the applied current resulted in an increased duration of unconsciousness. However, the unipolar pulsed Dc a t 550 Hz did not induce cardiac arrest, and it must therefore be accompanie d by a prompt and effective neck cut, severing both carotid arteries.