New Research Shows Public Support for Bans on Octopus Farming in the EU and the UK

Industrial‑scale octopus farming is being developed in Spain, but little is known about how the public views it. To find out, researchers surveyed 14,131 adults across 13 EU countries and the UK, and also tested short, factual messages about the animal welfare, environmental, public health, and economic impacts of octopus farming.

What we learned
Most people had not heard about plans for a commercial octopus farm in Spain, and many felt they knew little about its possible impacts. Even so, about half of respondents supported national bans on intensive octopus farming, and fewer than one in five opposed such bans; support was similar for bans on selling farmed octopus and on using public funds to support farms. Support topped 60% in Italy, the UK, and the Netherlands, and—even in Spain—support exceeded opposition.

What changed opinions
Brief educational messages made a measurable difference on support for bans on octopus farming. Messages about octopus sentience and welfare were the most persuasive overall, with environmental and public‑health messages also boosting support. An economics‑focused message was less effective.

Who tended to support bans
Support was higher among older respondents and among those who felt more knowledgeable about octopus sentience and environmental impacts. Opposition was more common among men and among people who eat octopus more frequently.

Why it matters
Overall, the vast majority of EU and UK residents are either supportive of, or neutral towards, policies that would restrict intensive octopus farming. Clear, accessible information—especially about octopus sentience and welfare—can increase public support for protective policies on this emerging issue.

For more information, contact:

Dr Rebecca Niemiec- rebecca.niemiec@colostate.edu

Document available here:

Full Report on Public Perspectives Towards Octopus Farming:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PkI4uG5c67NYqcfIcPLVmC3XDU06K6l4/view?usp=sharing

Country-Specific Policy Briefs:

Denmark: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15MSHxLPVUwUfqfaPHRdSwMHtPxI0wgHk/view?usp=sharing

United Kingdom: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KFRTREQHyJMUJb4TKooFfdVJ3Z5ebFd2/view?usp=sharing

Netherlands: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11NS0Vh20ZUrdN4nJUcvFWEl4DAl8VlJ9/view?usp=sharing

Italy: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jjIjjJoNhhwRN4PpTtfm40RLcH0kiLWm/view?usp=sharing