In zoos and animal research facilities, the health and well-being of the animals are paramount. A crucial aspect of animal care in these environments is ensuring a reliable and safe food supply. For many carnivorous and omnivorous species, this involves storing whole prey animals, such as rodents, fish, or birds, which are used for feeding. The proper storage of these food sources is essential not only for preserving nutritional value but also for preventing contamination. In this blog, we'll explore the critical role of freezers in zoos and animal research facilities and the best practices for storing animal feed.
Importance of Proper Storage for Animal Feed
Carnivorous animals, including big cats, birds of prey, reptiles, and marine mammals, often require diets that include whole prey. This food must be stored at the correct temperatures to maintain its nutritional quality and safety. Improper storage can lead to spoilage, the growth of harmful bacteria, and the loss of essential nutrients, all of which can adversely affect the health of the animals being fed.
Freezing as a Key Preservation Method
Freezing is the preferred method for storing whole prey items in zoos and research facilities. Here’s why:
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Preservation of Nutritional Value: Freezing slows down the degradation of proteins, fats, and other essential nutrients in the prey animals, ensuring that the food maintains its nutritional value over time.
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Prevention of Spoilage: By keeping prey items at temperatures below freezing, the growth of bacteria and other pathogens is halted, preventing spoilage and reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses in the animals.
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Extended Shelf Life: Properly frozen prey can be stored for extended periods without losing quality, allowing zoos and research facilities to maintain a steady and reliable food supply.
Selecting the Right Freezer for the Job
When it comes to storing animal feed, not just any freezer will do. Zoos and research facilities need specialised equipment that meets their unique needs:
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Temperature Consistency: The freezer must maintain a consistent temperature, usually below -20°C, to ensure that prey animals remain frozen solid. Even slight fluctuations can lead to partial thawing, which can compromise food safety.
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Capacity and Organisation: Depending on the size of the facility and the number of animals being fed, freezers must offer adequate capacity for bulk storage. Additionally, organisational features such as shelving and compartments can help staff manage and access the feed efficiently.
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Durability and Reliability: Freezers in these settings must withstand frequent opening and closing, as well as the heavy use typical in a busy facility. High-quality construction and reliable performance are critical to ensuring that the freezer functions optimally over time.
Thermoline’s Freezer Solutions for Zoos and Research Facilities
Thermoline offers a range of laboratory freezers designed to meet the specific needs of zoos and animal research facilities. Here’s why our freezers are the preferred choice for storing animal feed:
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Robust Temperature Control: Our freezers are engineered to maintain consistent, ultra-low temperatures, ensuring that prey animals are stored safely and securely.
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Large Storage Capacity: We provide freezers with various capacity options, allowing facilities to choose the size that best fits their storage needs, whether they are feeding a few animals or an entire zoo.
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Heavy-Duty Construction: Built to last, Thermoline laboratory freezers are designed for durability, withstanding the demands of daily use in busy environments.
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Energy Efficiency: Our freezers are not only reliable but also energy-efficient, helping facilities manage their operational costs while maintaining a safe food supply for their animals.
Conclusion
Proper storage of animal feed is a vital component of animal care in zoos and research facilities. By choosing the right freezer, these organisations can ensure that their animals receive the high-quality, safe, and nutritious food they need to thrive. Thermoline’s range of laboratory freezers offers the performance and reliability required to meet the unique challenges of storing whole prey animals, making them an essential part of any animal care strategy.
For more information on our freezer solutions and how they can support your facility’s needs, contact us today.
