Hilton Foods, a leading international multi-protein processor, has produced their first crustacean welfare policy, wherein crustaceans are acknowledged as sentient beings and their welfare implications during farming, transport, and slaughter are taken into account - for each of the species within Hilton’s supply chain. The policy, created with strong support from Aquatic Life Institute, indicates an important shift toward crustacean welfare considerations in the seafood sector and will likely create a ripple effect within the industry.

The policy is a continuation of Hilton Foods' Animal Welfare Policy and Statement, including their 8 animal welfare objectives that have been established in the past for other species. Notably, some highlights of the policy include:

• A commitment to eliminating eye-stalk ablation by 2026 in UK supply chains
• A public statement that 100% stunning before slaughter is performed on farmed crustaceans (electrical or thermal), wild crabs and lobsters
• A commitment to explore environmental enrichments, giving crustaceans a more positive rearing experience, as well as ensuring appropriate stocking densities on farms
• A commitment to purchasing farmed crustaceans from independently certified farms, and the certifications they accept are Global Gap, Best Aquaculture Practices, Aquaculture Stewardship Council and Organic Certification 

Aquatic Life Institute is confident that Hilton’s commitment to welfare will pave the way for other food companies to follow in their steps to meet the growing demand for comprehensive policies from consumers. Hilton foods is a leading international food and supply chain service partner to leading retailers, global brands and the food service sector. Hilton Foods was a pioneer in crustacean welfare since they carried out a pilot with Tesco in 2021 using electrical stunning for whiteleg prawns. They reported £3,847.6m in revenue (2022), serving over 19 markets internationally, working in partnership with leading retail and foodservice brands. The have multi-category offer across 5 food categories: meat, seafood, vegan & vegetarian, easier meals and supply chain services.

The progressive policy has already received media coverage such as The Fish Site, Intrafish and Persishable news, which evidences the industry's growing interest in aquatic animal welfare.