Multiple aquaculture certification schemes exist with varying welfare standards, and understanding the differences helps consumers make welfare-informed choices.
Aquaculture welfare certification is a developing field: the oldest and most recognised schemes focus on environmental sustainability rather than individual animal welfare. RSPCA Assured is the UK's strongest welfare-focused aquaculture standard, covering stocking density, water quality, and pre-slaughter stunning for salmon and trout. Consumer understanding of the differences between certification marks is generally low, limiting the market signal that welfare-focused purchasing could provide. Better labelling transparency would enable more effective consumer-driven welfare improvement.