04/08/2026
Everything we thought we knew about crustaceans was wrong. For years, people believed these creatures couldn’t feel pain. But in 2022, New Zealand took a groundbreaking step by strengthening its animal welfare protections, acknowledging that lobsters, crabs, and other crustaceans are indeed capable of feeling pain and distress. The new regulations mandate that these animals must be stunned or humanely killed before cooking, effectively ending the cruel practice of boiling them alive. This decision was driven by mounting scientific evidence revealing the sentience of crustaceans and their ability to suffer. Animal welfare advocates hailed this move as a monumental victory for marine life, emphasizing that even creatures from the ocean deserve compassion and protection. It’s a reminder that our understanding of animal welfare is evolving, and we must continue to advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves.
