A review of aquaculture certification schemes in 2026, examining coverage, rigour, and the welfare standards achieved by ASC, RSPCA Assured, and other certifications.
Key Facts
Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) is the leading international aquaculture certification
RSPCA Assured covers farmed salmon and trout in UK with welfare-specific requirements
Organic aquaculture certification exists but covers small market share
Certification standards vary considerably in welfare rigour between schemes
Consumer demand for certified aquaculture products is growing but remains minority market share
Welfare Considerations
Aquaculture certification welfare requires schemes that go beyond environmental sustainability to include genuine animal welfare standards. ASC environmental focus is insufficient for welfare assurance. RSPCA Assured provides stronger welfare requirements for covered species. Building consumer demand for welfare certification creates market incentives.
What You Can Do
Choose RSPCA Assured or equivalent welfare-certified aquaculture products
Advocate for stronger welfare standards in aquaculture certification
Support expansion of welfare certification to cover more aquaculture species