Lobsters and crabs have complex nervous systems and show behavioural responses consistent with pain, raising serious welfare questions about common handling and killing practices.
The welfare case for crustacean pain has strengthened considerably in recent years. Lobsters and crabs show wound-directed behaviour, grooming of injured areas, and avoidance learning consistent with pain experience. Standard industry killing methods — immersion in boiling water, splitting while alive — impose potentially prolonged distress. Electrical stunning and percussive killing methods are faster and may significantly reduce suffering.