UK Government confirms live boiling of crustaceans no longer acceptable, animal welfare organisation Crustacean Compassion welcomes change and works with industry partners to provide solutions.
In its newly published Animal Welfare Strategy, the UK Government has clarified that live boiling killing methods for crabs and lobsters are “not acceptable.” This change in legislation has been welcomed by animal welfare organisation Crustacean Compassion, which has been working with industry partners to provide practical, sustainable solutions for the transition to higher welfare standards.
CEO of Crustacean Compassion, Dr Ben Sturgeon, says, “This is a clear signal that the days of boiling crabs and lobsters alive are numbered. It’s an important step toward ending unnecessary suffering and creating a future where humane practices are the norm.”
Crustacean Compassion has been leading the way with its Kinder Kitchens initiative, in collaboration with The Chefs’ Forum, which aims to educate the hospitality sector on high-welfare practices for crustaceans. They have also been working with manufacturers of electrical stunning machinery, Mitchell and Cooper, to encourage its adoption in commercial kitchens by offering free trial rental periods.
Catherine Farinha, Founder of The Chefs’ Forum, says, “The Chefs’ Forum is proud to be working closely with Crustacean Compassion through the Kinder Kitchens initiative, to support positive change across the foodservice sector. We will be launching a dedicated training programme in the new year, designed to support industry operators with practical guidance and knowledge as they embed higher welfare standards into their kitchens.”
One of the renowned chefs leading the way in this change is Merrick Webber, who recently completed the Kinder Kitchens electrical stunning trial. He says, “Chefs have a responsibility to understand evolving welfare standards for sentient animals like crustaceans and lead the way in ethical seafood practices. During the trial, I saw that electrical stunning is practical and improves quality – the lobster and crab meat was noticeably plumper, and guests even commented it was the best they’d ever eaten.”
The new guidance from Defra will support a brighter future for British seafood, with industry leaders now having a responsibility to ensure all businesses understand their obligations and embrace humane practices. Dr Ben Sturgeon adds, “By clarifying that live boiling is unacceptable and committing to guidance, ministers have given the UK seafood industry a level playing field and the opportunity to lead globally on welfare.”
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.