Aquatic Animals

Farmed Shrimp and Stunning Before Slaughter

Shrimp are farmed in vast numbers globally with almost no welfare protections, despite growing evidence they may be capable of suffering.

Key Facts

Over 400 billion shrimp are farmed globally each year
Shrimp possess nociceptors and show avoidance learning
They are typically boiled alive without prior stunning
Many farms use overcrowded ponds with poor water quality
Disease outbreaks cause mass mortality in intensive shrimp farms

Welfare Considerations

The scale of shrimp farming makes welfare reforms high-impact. Evidence suggests shrimp can experience pain-like states. Electrical stunning before killing is technically feasible and reduces potential suffering dramatically. Improving water quality, stocking density, and disease management also reduces chronic stress responses in farmed shrimp.

What You Can Do

Choose certified higher-welfare shrimp when available
Support the Shrimp Welfare Project's research and advocacy
Reduce shrimp consumption pending better welfare standards
Ask supermarkets about their shrimp welfare policies
Advocate for pre-slaughter stunning requirements for crustaceans