Aquaculture

Global Farmed Shrimp Welfare Standards Gap Analysis

Shrimp are the most traded seafood commodity globally, but welfare standards in shrimp aquaculture remain largely absent.

Key Facts

Global shrimp aquaculture produces over 5 million tonnes annually, mostly in Asia
Evidence for shrimp sentience and pain experience is scientifically uncertain but suggestive
Eyestalk ablation - removing eyes to induce spawning - is standard practice in broodstock farms
High stocking densities in grow-out ponds correlate with disease outbreaks and mortalities
Some certifications (ASC) include environmental standards but limited specific welfare criteria

Welfare Considerations

The scale of shrimp production means that even low-probability welfare harms could affect very large numbers of animals. Eyestalk ablation causes acute injury and chronic endocrine disruption. High stocking densities facilitate disease. Developing and implementing welfare standards for shrimp production represents a significant unmet need in aquaculture.

What You Can Do

Support organisations researching shrimp sentience and developing welfare standards
Choose shrimp from certified sustainable sources with strong traceability
Advocate for inclusion of welfare criteria in shrimp aquaculture certification schemes
Support the Shrimp Welfare Project and similar organisations