30 NEBRASKA CATTLEMAN March 2026 They found the best way to do that was by implementing AI throughout their facility. “We’ve implemented AI most extensively in our animal welfare programming,” says Paxton Sullivan, the technical services manager for Sustainable Beef. “We use a company called Lumachain, which has been validated in one study looking at how their camera-vision performs against an animal welfare expert.” “The metrics we track are standard animal welfare key performance indicators used across beef packing plants,” Sullivan explains. “Electric prods can be a helpful tool for moving cattle when used appropriately; however, they should be used carefully and only when necessary. From a regulatory standpoint, improper or excessive use can result in USDA animal welfare noncompliance. Beyond compliance concerns, overuse can negatively impact both animal welfare and meat quality. We have zero tolerance for prods anywhere but one area in the plant. We’ve been able to train the AI to know where prods are acceptable and where they’re not.” “The goal of implementing AI in the beef industry is increased efficiency, genetic improvement, health and operational improvement in terms of how we manage cattle. Ultimately, those who don’t embrace it will get left behind.” — Andrew Uden THE OTHER AI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 29
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