Where is the verification of the livestock zero tolerance standard for carcasses performed?

The verification of the livestock zero tolerance standard for carcasses is performed at or after the post-mortem rail because this is the stage in meat processing where visual inspections and assessments of carcasses can be conducted. The post-mortem inspection is crucial for identifying any defects or contaminants before the carcass is allowed to enter the food supply chain. This phase ensures that any carcasses that do not meet the established standards, including the zero tolerance for fecal contamination and other defects, are correctly identified and removed. This is fundamental to ensuring food safety and maintaining hygiene standards in meat production.

Conducting this verification at the cooler or during packaging is inappropriate, as those stages occur after the critical point of inspection has already passed. Inspecting before slaughtering does not apply, as that phase focuses on the health and condition of the live animals rather than the carcass itself. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the importance of the post-mortem inspection as a key point for ensuring compliance with food safety standards.