The practice of boiling lobsters alive and conscious is set to be prohibited in England to enhance animal welfare standards. Government officials assert that live boiling is an unacceptable method of killing crustaceans and will release alternative guidelines soon. This initiative is part of the comprehensive Animal Welfare Strategy aimed at enhancing the well-being of pets, farm animals, and wildlife.
Switzerland, Norway, and New Zealand already prohibit boiling lobsters alive, with animal welfare organizations suggesting more humane methods such as stunning with an electric gun or chilling in cold air before boiling. The CEO of Crustacean Compassion, Ben Sturgeon, hailed the decision, emphasizing the excruciating pain endured by conscious animals during boiling and advocating for humane alternatives like electrical stunning.
Former Tory minister Zac Goldsmith expressed support for the ban, denouncing the brutality of boiling live animals. A law introduced in 2022 by the Tories recognized invertebrates like octopus, crabs, and lobsters as sentient beings capable of feeling pain similar to other animals.
The Animal Welfare Strategy also includes plans to investigate the prohibition of electric shock collars for pets, combat dog attacks on farm animals, and end practices like caging hens, trail hunting, and the use of snares. Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds praised the strategy as the most ambitious in a generation, reflecting the UK’s commitment as a nation of animal lovers.
The strategy further outlines reforms for pet breeding practices to address health and welfare concerns, particularly targeting puppy farming and smuggling. For farm animals, the focus is on eliminating confinement systems, ensuring humane slaughter for farmed fish, and promoting the use of slow-growing chicken breeds. Additionally, there are pledges to phase out pig farrowing crates and address welfare issues related to the use of carbon dioxide for stunning pigs.
