Aquaculture

Farmed Salmon Slaughter and Humane Killing Methods

The slaughter method used for farmed salmon is one of the most significant welfare intervention points.

Key Facts

Percussive stunning followed by bleeding is considered the gold standard for salmon
CO2 stunning causes prolonged distress and is banned in some countries
Electrical stunning can be effective but requires proper implementation
Norway's salmon welfare regulations require effective stunning before killing

Welfare Considerations

Salmon slaughtered without effective prior stunning experience prolonged conscious suffering. CO2 narcosis, still used in some operations, causes extended aversive reactions before unconsciousness. Percussive stunning renders fish immediately unconscious when properly applied. The difference in individual fish welfare between humane and inhumane slaughter methods is dramatic — this is a high-impact welfare intervention point.

What You Can Do

Choose salmon products with certified humane slaughter commitments
Support mandatory stunning requirements for farmed salmon
Advocate for CO2 narcosis to be banned in salmon slaughter
Donate to aquaculture welfare research on slaughter methods