RSPCA Revokes Huon Aquaculture Certification Amid Mass Mortality Incident

RSPCA Australia has revoked its certification of Huon Aquaculture following disturbing footage that showed workers sealing live salmon in containers with dead fish during a mass mortality event. The decision comes after a 14-day suspension triggered by the Bob Brown Foundation's drone video, which revealed the inhumane handling of fish amidst a significant bacterial outbreak that led to the deaths of over 1 million salmon. RSPCA CEO Richard Mussell emphasized the seriousness of the incident, stating that it compromises animal welfare standards, as fish are sentient beings capable of experiencing pain. Huon expressed its disappointment over the loss of certification, claiming the event was an isolated incident not reflective of their usual practices, while also committing to maintaining high welfare standards moving forward. The RSPCA's withdrawal leaves no Tasmanian salmon producers with its certification, intensifying scrutiny on the state's salmon industry. The incident has sparked further public protests and raised political concerns regarding the industry's environmental impact.