Farmed shrimp represent one of the largest animal production systems globally, with significant welfare and environmental challenges.
Shrimp welfare is under-studied but evidence suggests they respond to noxious stimuli and may experience pain. Eyestalk ablation — removing the eye to manipulate hormones — causes clear physical damage. High densities promote disease, particularly from white spot syndrome virus. Slaughter methods (often chilling, ice slurry, or asphyxiation) have not been evaluated for welfare.