Document type: article published on The Fish Site
Preview: A new study into the methods used to slaughter farmed fish in Brazilian aquaculture has provoked serious animal welfare concerns.
In order to assess the current techniques for slaughtering fish in Brazil, understand critical welfare points during slaughter and organise knowledge regarding alternative technologies to minimise animal suffering, a group of researchers from LAanimal welfare/UFPR and FAI Brazil set out to investigate the principle methods being used. [...]
The researchers note that neither asphyxia nor thermonarcosis are considered humane, as animals remain conscious and experience intense stress for long periods before dying. Electronarcosis is considered adequate in terms of welfare but only if effective - the correct equipment and handling methods are very important.
Above all, the researchers conclude that the study "highlights an urgent need for the development and adoption of humane fish slaughter techniques and equipment with routine supervision in Brazil".
