Animal welfare in European caviar production: insights from sturgeon producers

Sturgeon are long-lived, late-maturing species and are typically maintained in captivity for many years prior to roe collection, raising distinct welfare considerations compared with most other farmed fish. European producers account for a substantial proportion of farmed caviar, yet little is known about welfare conditions in commercial sturgeon broodstock systems. This exploratory study examined European caviar producers’ perspectives on production practices and animal welfare. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants representing approximately 20% of European caviar production. Participants were recruited with support from the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers Sturgeon Commission. Interviews were transcribed and analysed using thematic analysis. Three main themes were identified: (1) history of caviar production and species used in farming, (2) living conditions for sturgeon and (3) market considerations and external pressures. Producers consistently described strong links between water quality, stress reduction and feed management and the quality of caviar, suggesting that economic incentives may align with certain welfare-supportive practices. Divergent views were expressed regarding traditional slaughter versus no-kill extraction, with perceived welfare and quality trade-offs in both systems. This study provides initial insight into European sturgeon farming practices and identifies priority areas for independent welfare assessment and future research.