Albert Heijn, the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands, has announced its decision to cease the sale of all shrimp sourced from female specimens whose eyes have been surgically removed to enhance fertility. This move comes in response to mounting concerns over animal welfare and ethical sourcing within the seafood industry.

Phasing Out Shrimp Products

Albert Heijn has removed fresh shrimp products from its shelves, with plans to extend this initiative to include frozen products and shrimp used in snacks within the coming year.

The decision follows persistent advocacy efforts by animal welfare organization Wakker Dier, which first highlighted the controversial practice in 2021. The procedure involves the removal of the eyes of female shrimp to disrupt hormone production, purportedly increasing their fertility. This practice has been predominantly observed among suppliers from Vietnam, Ecuador, Honduras, Indonesia, and Venezuela.

Advocating for Animal Welfare

Wakker Dier has been vocal in condemning the eye-cutting practice, citing research that reveals the distressing impact on the shrimp. Albert Heijn’s response to these concerns is applauded by Wakker Dier, which hopes that other supermarkets will follow suit.

Albert Heijn’s decision aligns with its broader commitment to sustainability and transparency within its seafood supply chain. Since 2023, the supermarket chain has prioritized a transparent and sustainable tropical shrimp chain. Additionally, Albert Heijn plans to transition exclusively to offering shrimp that has been electrically stunned before slaughter.