Crustacean Compassion Welcomes Government’s Plan to Prohibit Live Boiling of Crabs and Lobsters
London, UK – In a major win for animal welfare, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) has announced its intention to ban the live boiling of conscious crustaceans such as crabs and lobsters. The move, which is part of the Government’s published Animal Welfare Strategy, comes after years of research, campaigning, and public advocacy by animal welfare organization Crustacean Compassion.
Dr Ben Sturgeon, Chief Executive of Crustacean Compassion, welcomed the news, stating, “We wholeheartedly welcome the Government’s intentions to ban the live boiling of conscious crustaceans and address other areas of welfare compromise. Recognizing the sentience of crabs, lobsters, and other decapod crustaceans, and banning inhumane practices like live boiling, is a vital step forward for animal welfare.”
Decapod crustaceans, which include crabs, lobsters, and prawns, were recognized as sentient beings, able to feel pain, in 2022 through robust scientific evidence. However, until now, there have been no specific guidelines regarding their welfare during slaughter. This has resulted in these animals being subjected to inhumane practices, such as being placed in a pot of boiling water while still conscious.
Dr Sturgeon emphasized the cruelty of live boiling, stating, “When live, conscious decapod crustaceans are placed into a pot of boiling water, they endure several minutes of excruciating pain before they die. This is torture for crabs and lobsters and is completely avoidable.”
The new guidance, expected to be implemented through an animal welfare action plan, will prohibit live boiling of crustaceans and provide humane alternatives, such as electrical stunning prior to slaughter. These methods ensure that the animals are killed swiftly and without unnecessary suffering.
“This guidance will give both industry and consumers the clarity and tools they need to treat these animals with the respect they deserve,” said Dr Sturgeon. “Today’s announcement is a positive step forward for lobsters and crabs.”
The seafood industry has also been working towards providing humane practices across the supply chain, in line with rising consumer demand and commercial pressure. This move by the Government is a testament to the power of sustained advocacy and public compassion.
Dr Sturgeon added, “Today’s announcement shows what’s possible when science, public compassion, and sustained advocacy come together. We’re proud of this achievement, and we’re even more motivated to continue improving protections for crustaceans in other areas.”
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