Introducing a humane tailing system for onboard prawn processing
Optimar has, in close collaboration with Fisheries Innovation & Sustainability (FIS) and key stakeholders in the UK scampi industry, developed the first integrated onboard system for humane stunning and tailing of prawns.
The new “Stun & Tail” system combines controlled stunning with automated tailing in one system. It introduces a more humane approach to prawn processing at sea, while also improving crew conditions,product handling and raw material utilization.
Collaboration across the value chain
Led by FIS, the project has brought together fishing organizations in Northern Ireland and Scotland, processors, the University of Stirling, and major retailers including Sainsbury’s and M&S. The aim has been to develop practical technology that helps the fleet respond to new crew visa rules and increasing expectations around animal welfare and market requirements.
Trials onboard the Northern Irish prawn trawler The Golden Ray have demonstrated that the system performs reliably under real fishing conditions. Further development is underway to scale capacity and automation, supported by funding from Northern Ireland’s Marine Environment & Fisheries Fund.
A significant step for animal welfare and utilization
The development is particularly relevant in the UK and Irish Nephrops fishery, which accounts for morethan half of global landings. Introducing humane stunning as part of onboard processing in such a significant fishery represents an important step forward for the industry.
The prawn tail accounts for approximately 25–30% of the total body weight. The new system is designed to maximize tail recovery while also enabling better handling of the remaining raw material. Options for further utilization ashore, including feed, fertilizer and bioenergy, are being explored based on market demand.
In November, the project received international recognition by winning the Innovation Award at the Catch Welfare Platform’s annual conference in the Netherlands, highlighting its potential welfare impact and socio-economic benefits for fishing communities.
With the introduction of onboard Stun & Tail, Optimar and FIS are contributing to the continued development of a more responsible and efficient prawn fishery.
