Aquaculture Atlantic Cod Welfare

Atlantic cod farming has developed as wild stocks collapsed - welfare challenges include high stocking densities and disease susceptibility.

Key Facts

Wild Atlantic cod stocks collapsed due to overfishing in the 1990s
Farmed cod production has grown but remains much smaller than salmon
Cod are sensitive to crowding and show aggression-related injuries at high stocking densities
Vibriosis and other bacterial infections cause significant welfare harm in farmed cod
Cod require cold, well-oxygenated water - temperature management is critical for welfare
Slaughter welfare including stunning prior to killing is being developed for cod aquaculture

Welfare Considerations

Farmed cod welfare presents distinct challenges from salmon aquaculture. Cod are more aggressive species that require careful stocking density management. Investment in disease prevention and humane slaughter protocols is essential as the industry grows.

What You Can Do

Ask retailers about the welfare standards of any farmed cod they stock
Support aquaculture welfare research covering emerging farmed species
Advocate for welfare assessment protocols to be applied to cod aquaculture
Support Marine Stewardship Council certification for sustainably caught wild cod