Aquaculture

Aquaculture Welfare Certification - Comparison of Standards

Multiple aquaculture welfare certification schemes exist with varying standards, and comparing their requirements helps consumers make more informed choices.

Key Facts

ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) covers environmental standards but has limited welfare criteria
RSPCA Assured covers salmon and trout with specific welfare indicators
Organic certification requires lower stocking density and prohibits certain treatments
Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) is widely used but has been criticised for weak welfare standards
No global scheme covers shrimp welfare comprehensively to a high standard

Welfare Considerations

Aquaculture certification is a work in progress. Understanding the differences between schemes helps consumers exert meaningful market pressure for genuine welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Choose RSPCA Assured or organic-certified farmed fish where available
Ask retailers which certification standards their aquaculture products meet
Support industry efforts to develop more comprehensive welfare standards