Shrimp are the world's most consumed seafood by value. The welfare implications of shrimp farming and capture are significant, though less studied than for fish.
Shrimp welfare occupies uncertain scientific territory. Shrimp are crustaceans with simple nervous systems, and the evidence for conscious experience is weaker than for decapod crustaceans like crabs and lobsters. However, they do show nociceptive responses and some avoidance learning. The most concerning welfare practice is eyestalk ablation — the removal of an eye from broodstock females to induce maturation, performed without anaesthesia. This is a practice with clear potential for causing pain and is difficult to justify when alternative induction methods exist. The precautionary welfare principle, plus strong sustainability concerns, suggests consumers should treat shrimp consumption with care.