La regulation of aquaculture in France is a set of laws and guidelines that are crucial to ensuring a sustainable business that respects the environment and animal welfare. As a young pet shop floor manager and a fervent defender of animals, it's always interesting to see how our practices can evolve to better respect aquatic inhabitants. Here's a complete overview of these regulations for producers and investors.
Animal welfare in aquaculture
Animal welfare in aquaculture is a subject increasingly taken seriously by European and national authorities. However, many shortcomings persist, especially in terms of mistreatment and cruelty to fish.
First of all, scientific studies carried out over the last ten years have shown that the sensitivity of marine vertebrates and invertebratesThis has been confirmed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Despite this, current legislation still does not guarantee adequate protection for fish.
- Common practices, such as stressful and cruel treatments, often include procedures without prior stunning.
- NGOs, as well as a number of influential figures, are calling for this sensitivity to be incorporated into aquaculture practices in order to improve regulations.
CIWF (Compassion In World Farming) has carried out an investigation revealing shocking practices on rainbow trout farms in Poland. These farms suffer from infections, injuries and high stocking densities. The fish are subjected to cruel slaughter methods such as ineffective electric shocks, removal of the eyeballs and evisceration in the raw.
As a result, it is imperative that changes be made to bring the regulations into line with the new regulations. modern animal welfare standards. One evening, while chatting with a vet friend, we were horrified by some of the inhumane treatment these creatures were subjected to. It really opened my eyes to the need for strict regulation.
EU directives and regulations
The European Union plays a crucial role in setting standards for animal welfare and the safety of aquaculture production. There are two main texts governing aquaculture in the EU:
- The directive on the protection of animals kept for farming purposes stipulates that methods causing suffering must not be used.
- The regulations on the protection of animals at the time of killing require the elimination of all avoidable pain, distress or suffering.
These regulations testify to a growing awareness of the welfare of farmed fish, although unfortunately still insufficient. The European authorities recognise that this remains a major concern and are attempting to incorporate specific requirements for each species in the next revision of the legislation, initially scheduled for 2023 but postponed until 2024.
The European Commission and various NGOs, including CIWF, are campaigning for a revision that includes fish in animal welfare legislation. I've always been intrigued to know how the rules differed between countries and seeing the efforts being made to standardise these standards is reassuring in a way.
Sustainable aquaculture in France with the support of FEAMPA
France has adopted a proactive approach to promote a sustainable aquacultureThe project was made possible in large part thanks to the support of the European Maritime Affairs, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (FEAMPA). This fund aims to support fishermen and coastal communities while facilitating access to finance for sustainable projects.
Fish farming in France is divided into three distinct sectors:
- Salmon farming, mainly producing rainbow trout.
- Marine fish farming, focusing on sea bass, sea bream, turbot and salmon.
- Pond fish farming, important for restocking and direct consumption.
French fish farmers benefit from quality labels such as the red label and organic aquaculture, adding value to their production. The country is also recognised as one of the world's leading caviar producers, thanks to sturgeon farming in Aquitaine.
To reduce its dependence on imports, which currently stands at 70 %, France is encouraging aquaculture, in particular by supporting environmentally-friendly sectors that respect animal welfare. However, marine fish farming faces major challenges, notably the lack of available sites and competition with other coastal activities.
Once, during a visit to Brittany, I was impressed by a small fish farm using innovative techniques to minimise ecological impact, while respecting welfare standards. An example for the whole industry to follow!
Environmental requirements and aquaculture production
The environmental constraints imposed by European directives play a crucial role in the management of fish farms in France. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) is one of the most significant, providing a framework for the authorisations issued to fish farms.
These constraints can reduce production, particularly in marine fish farming, where the availability of sites and competing coastal activities are major obstacles. Nevertheless, sustainable management of water and resources is essential to maintain ecological balance.
CIWF is calling for greater support from the research to develop humane farming, transport and slaughter methods. These efforts aim to minimise environmental impact while preserving the well-being of the fish and guaranteeing sustainable production.
To ensure ecological and sustainable management, French regulations also impose high standards in terms of pollution and effluent management. The aim is to minimise the impact of fish farms on the surrounding ecosystems, a subject that I personally find crucial as a great animal lover.
- Maintaining aquatic biodiversity.
- Reducing pollutant emissions.
- Rigorous management of water resources.
| Requirement | Expected impact |
|---|---|
| Effluent control | Reducing water pollution |
| Protecting biodiversity | Preserving marine ecosystems |
| Supervision of breeding practices | Animal welfare guarantee |
Quality signs in the fish farming sector
The quality of aquaculture products in France is underpinned by a number of labels and certifications, guaranteeing consumers high standards of production and animal welfare.
These signs of quality include :
- Label rougeThis is an indication of the superior quality recognised by the French authorities.
- Organic aquacultureThese products meet strict organic production criteria.
French fry producers are also highly prized by their European neighbours, particularly in the Mediterranean countries and the Middle East, reflecting the excellence of local production techniques and conditions.
Finally, France stands out for its caviar production, particularly in Aquitaine, where sturgeon farming has made the country one of the world's leading producers. Each visit to these farms reminds me not only of the importance of our local know-how, but also of the pride we take in it.
Investing in French aquaculture means not only supporting a vital industry, but also being part of an approach that respects and enhances natural resources. As a wildlife enthusiast, I can only encourage this move towards more ethical and sustainable practices.
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