Aquaculture Welfare

Salmon Welfare at Harvest - Slaughter Methods

The method used to kill farmed salmon at harvest has profound welfare implications, as fish can remain conscious during some processes.

Key Facts

Percussive stunning followed by bleeding is considered the most humane method
CO2 narcosis causes stress and is being phased out in progressive operations
Electrical stunning is widely used but requires precise calibration
Asphyxiation in ice slurry can take minutes and causes suffering
Welfare-conscious certifications now require stunning before killing

Welfare Considerations

Fish are capable of experiencing pain and fear. Ensuring rapid and effective stunning before killing at harvest is a fundamental welfare requirement that the aquaculture sector is increasingly recognizing.

What You Can Do

Support seafood certified by humane harvest standards
Advocate for mandatory pre-slaughter stunning in aquaculture regulations
Purchase salmon from producers with transparent slaughter welfare policies