Rainbow trout are among the most intensively farmed fish globally, and growing evidence of their sentience is driving interest in improving welfare standards across the industry.
Trout in intensive aquaculture frequently experience poor water quality, overcrowding, and repeated net handling. Evidence shows they can learn from painful experiences and exhibit stress responses to aversive stimuli. Welfare indicators including fin damage, abnormal swimming, and skin lesions are common in poorly managed systems. Improving stocking density, water quality, and slaughter methods offers meaningful welfare improvements at scale.