abattoir

abattoir (ăb"utwär') [key][Fr.], building for butchering. The abattoir houses facilities to slaughter animals; dress, cut and inspect meats; and refrigerate, cure, and manufacture byproducts. The largest abattoirs are those of the meatpacking industry. Plant construction, drainage, water supply, disposal of refuse, and all operations are under government regulation. Abattoirs are also called slaughterhouses.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

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