Crabs are increasingly farmed and harvested in large numbers, with growing scientific evidence that decapod crustaceans are sentient animals deserving welfare consideration.
The growing scientific case for crab sentience creates an ethical imperative to improve welfare throughout the supply chain. Live boiling without prior stunning is increasingly recognized as an inhumane slaughter method. Electrical stunning devices that render crabs insensible before killing represent the most practical near-term welfare improvement. Aquaculture crab welfare standards should include water quality, density, and handling requirements.