Hanging by their feet, the chickens enter the kill room, where their heads are dipped in a solution of water and salt. The salt is needed to increase conductivity. A shock of 16 volts of electricity is delivered through the shackles, rendering the birds unconscious. Within seconds, they move past an automated blade that slits their throats. The birds' blood drains for exactly 90 seconds, plant managers say, or the meat will toughen. (5 of 14)

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