Decapod crustaceans – such as lobsters and crabs – are sentient invertebrate animals capable of experiencing emotions, pain and suffering. Yet these sensitive animals regularly experience prolonged and painful deaths in the UK, such as being boiled alive whilst completely conscious. Our position is that this killing method is contrary to the Welfare of Animals at the Time of Killing Regulations 2015, which spares these animals from avoidable pain and suffering at the time of killing.
For years, The Animal Law Foundation has worked to get the government to recognise and enforce this interpretation. We have engaged actively with local and national authorities and sent an open letter with over 50 signatories from animal protection groups, such as the RSPCA and Compassion in World Farming, academics, and celebrities. In December 2025, the government made it clear it agrees with us in its Animal Welfare Strategy for England. It is now the official position that boiling these animals alive is illegal.
UPDATE
This success has the potential to protect so many lobsters and crabs who are subjected to avoidable and unlawful pain at the time of killing.
What now? We will continue to communicate to make clear that boiling decapod crustaceans alive is an unacceptable and illegal killing method. We will also carefully monitor the government’s next steps to ensure official guidance fulfills their commitment and protects decapod crustaceans.
Good news! Our work is making headlines!
Aquatic Animal Alliance A Landmark Victory for Crustaceans and a Blueprint for Legal Interpretation
PlantBasedNews Will The UK Finally Ban Boiling Crabs Alive For Food? Here’s What You Need To Know
