Atlantic Salmon Aquaculture Welfare Future Directions

The future of Atlantic salmon aquaculture welfare depends on resolving systemic challenges including sea lice, slaughter methods, and RAS transition. Understanding the trajectory guides consumer and policy choices.

Key Facts

Norway produces 1.4 million tonnes of Atlantic salmon annually, the worlds largest salmon producer
Sea lice remain the primary welfare challenge with chemical and biological treatment both having welfare costs
RAS technology potentially resolves sea lice and ocean pollution issues but has its own welfare implications
Pre-slaughter stunning adoption has improved significantly in Norway with electrical stunning now widespread
Slower-growing salmon strains being developed show better welfare outcomes than fastest-growing varieties

Welfare Considerations

Atlantic salmon aquaculture welfare has improved considerably over two decades through regulatory pressure, certification scheme requirements, and technological development. Pre-slaughter stunning has become standard in leading-producing countries. Sea lice management through biological control and RAS transition is reducing the welfare harm of chemical treatments. However, systemic challenges remain. Consumer demand for certified products with credible welfare claims has been the most consistent driver of improvement and remains the most powerful lever available for continued progress.

What You Can Do

Choose MSC-certified or RSPCA Assured Atlantic salmon from certified welfare operations
Ask retailers about pre-slaughter stunning and sea lice management welfare standards
Support the transition to RAS production that eliminates sea lice welfare challenges
Donate to research on Atlantic salmon welfare indicators and production system improvement