Freshwater crayfish are farmed and wild-caught across Europe. Evidence of pain sensitivity in crustaceans means their welfare during handling, transport, and slaughter requires attention.
European freshwater crayfish welfare intersects complex issues of native species conservation and production welfare. Invasive signal crayfish are legally required to be killed rather than released, but humane killing methods are rarely used. Evidence supports crayfish sentience sufficient to warrant welfare consideration. Chilling to near 0 degrees C induces anaesthesia before dispatching, a more humane method than live-boiling. Processing facilities should adopt pre-slaughter stunning as standard.