Aquaculture certification schemes vary widely in their fish welfare requirements; understanding what different labels mean helps consumers make informed choices.
Aquaculture certification presents a complex landscape for welfare-conscious consumers. Environmental sustainability certifications that say nothing about fish welfare are sometimes confused with welfare assurance by consumers. The few schemes that do address fish welfare vary in the comprehensiveness and rigour of their requirements. RSPCA Assured salmon certification is among the most welfare-focused available, requiring specific provisions for stocking density, enrichment, and slaughter method. As the scientific understanding of fish welfare grows, pressure is increasing on certification bodies to incorporate more meaningful welfare provisions into their standards.