CAL: Fish Slaughter

Question 1

How is handling reduced in fish farming?

Answer 1

widespread use of vacuum/ pressure pumps to transport fish from wellboats to processing factories

Question 2

Why is feed withdrawn from fish pre slaughter?

Answer 2

lowers metabolic rate to reduce stress, oxygen demand and improve water quality during crowding (less faecal waste)

Question 3

What is the downside to reducing feed in fish pre slaughter?

Answer 3

some evidence that it can lead to stress and aggression (especially in regularly fed, farmed fish- not wild ones)

Question 4

How does a mechanical percussive stunner work in fish? (2 ways)

Answer 4

manually operated where fish is placed into the stunning device OR automated where the fish follows the flow of water and enters the stunner

Question 5

Why is manual blunt force trauma not commonly used? (3)

Answer 5

Less effective
Animal welfare concerns
Operator fatigue

Question 6

How does electrical stunning work in fish?

Answer 6

Pass electrical current in water (but can be done out of water too) through the brain to induce brain dysfunction and unconsciousness

Question 7

Why is electrical stunning unfavourable to fish farmers?

Answer 7

The electric current causes spasms which leads to carcass damage and haemorrhage

Question 8

Is there a legal requirement in the UK to stun farm fish prior to slaughter?

Answer 8

Technically no- under PATOK they should be spared avoidable pain, distress or suffering at the time of slaughter but there’s no specific regulation regarding stunning