77% of Spaniards want animal welfare labeling on fish
A survey carried out by YouGov on behalf of Animal Welfare Observatory and Essere Animali has shown that European consumers are increasingly concerned about the welfare of fish in aquaculture.
04/10/2024
The study, which covered five European Union countries, including Spain, reveals a strong demand for more humane practices in fish farming and slaughter, as well as greater transparency in product labeling.
In Spain, the results are clear: 76% of respondents consider fish welfare in aquaculture to be crucial, and 77% support labeling that includes information about the conditions in which these animals are raised.
These findings reflect that most consumers reject current slaughter methods, such as the use of ice, which does not ensure effective stunning for fish
The survey also reveals that more than half of participants in all surveyed countries are willing to pay a higher price for products that guarantee better welfare standards for fish. This willingness increases significantly when consumers are informed about current slaughter practices, highlighting the importance of education and transparency in the aquaculture industry.
62% of respondents, even without being shown additional informational material, support regulations to improve stunning and slaughter methods
This figure rises significantly when consumers are made aware of current practices, indicating clear support for adopting stricter regulations to ensure more ethical treatment of fish.
The Animal Welfare Observatory and Essere Animali have made an urgent appeal to policymakers and the aquaculture industry to consider these findings when developing future policies. Implementing improvements in fish welfare standards and ensuring greater transparency in labeling will not only align practices with consumer demands but also contribute to significantly reducing animal suffering in aquaculture.