UK Government Bans Live Boiling of Lobsters and Crabs: A New Era of Seafood WelfareThe UK government, led by Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds, has introduced a new animal welfare strategy, banning the practice of boiling lobsters and crabs alive. This ban extends to other decapods like shrimp and prawns, and cephalopods such as squid and octopus. The move is a response to the recognition of these creatures as sentient beings capable of feeling pain, as per a 2022 law.Industry leaders, like David Jarrad from the Shellfish Association of Great Britain, express concern over the potential increase in costs and the possible end of the live shellfish trade. They fear that restaurants might opt for cheaper, imported frozen seafood instead of investing in pricey stunning equipment.Animal welfare groups, such as Dr. Ben Sturgeon of Crustacean Compassion, welcome the ban, highlighting the excruciating pain caused by boiling and the easily avoidable methods like electrical stunning. The government is set to release guidance on humane killing options, aiming to balance welfare with the seafood industry as this debate heats up.

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