Certification schemes for aquaculture including ASC and RSPCA Assured provide consumer guidance on welfare standards, though their scope and requirements vary.
Aquaculture certification provides a framework for welfare improvement when welfare standards are genuinely specified and independently audited. Schemes that address welfare specifically including stocking density, water quality, stunning before slaughter, and handling practices provide more meaningful welfare assurance than environmental certification alone. Consumer preference for certified products drives uptake of schemes that require genuine welfare improvement.