Channel catfish and pangasius (Vietnamese catfish) are among the most widely farmed freshwater fish globally. Their welfare needs — particularly around water quality, stocking density, and slaughter — receive insufficient regulatory attention.
Catfish welfare sits in a regulatory gap. While salmon and trout aquaculture have benefited from growing welfare attention and some regulatory frameworks, catfish — particularly in the US and Southeast Asia — receive minimal welfare oversight. The scale of production means welfare deficits affect vast numbers of animals. Water quality management, stocking density limits, humane harvesting protocols, and effective stunning at slaughter are all achievable improvements that would significantly reduce catfish suffering. Consumer demand for certified sustainable catfish creates market pressure for welfare improvements that currently outpaces regulatory requirements.