Aquaculture

Farmed Fish Harvest Slaughter Methods

The slaughter of farmed fish raises major welfare concerns, as most methods in widespread use cause prolonged consciousness and distress in fish capable of experiencing pain.

Key Facts

Around 73-180 billion farmed fish are killed globally each year
CO2 narcosis (used for trout and salmon) causes extreme aversion and prolonged distress
Percussive stunning followed by gill cut is more humane but rarely used for small fish
EFSA has concluded that all major commercial fish species are sentient and can suffer

Welfare Considerations

Fish killed by CO2 immersion show escape responses, loss of equilibrium and seizure activity for several minutes. Asphyxiation by air exposure causes slow suffocation lasting 15-60 minutes. Electrical stunning, when properly applied, causes rapid unconsciousness but must be followed immediately by killing. The gap between best practice and industry norm is enormous.

What You Can Do

Choose fish carrying the RSPCA Assured label which specifies humane slaughter
Ask fishmongers and retailers about their slaughter method requirements
Support the Fish Welfare Initiative's work with producers to improve slaughter
Advocate for mandatory humane slaughter standards in aquaculture certification