The UK government plans to ban the practice of boiling lobsters alive for cooking as part of a raft of new legislation aimed at improving animal welfare.
Announced on Monday 22 December, the Animal Welfare Strategy introduces new rules around wildlife preservation, animal breeding and butchering, and the keeping of domestic pets.
Among the many proposed changes is an outright ban on the practice of boiling lobsters while they are alive and conscious, a method of cooking the crustaceans that is followed in many kitchens and households across the country.
The government recognised that decapod crustaceans (such as lobsters) are sentient animals capable of feeling pain and suffering, and therefore its new rules will require more humane methods of dispatching these animals in kitchens before cooking.
It said that as part of its new Animal Welfare Strategy, it would publish guidance on which methods of killing decapods are compatible with the existing welfare at time of killing legal requirements, and it would clarify that live boiling is not an acceptable killing method.
The strategy also includes several proposed changes for the breeding and processing of animals for food products, including the potential banning of practices such as clipping the beaks of egg-laying hens.
As part of its animal welfare reforms, the government also plans to put an end to trail hunting, and it will consult on banning the use of snare traps in England.
A consultation will also be held on whether to go ahead with a ban on the use of electric shock collars on domestic pets, whether for training or otherwise.
“We’re a nation of animal lovers. This government is delivering the most ambitious animal welfare strategy in a generation,” said Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds.
“Visiting Battersea Dogs and Cats Home reminded me that millions of families welcome pets into their homes every year. Our strategy will raise welfare standards for animals in the home, on the farm and in the wild.”
“We’ve already acted to improve zoo standards, end puppy smuggling and protect livestock from dog attacks. Now, we’re planning to ban caged hens, cruel snares, trail hunting, and curb low-welfare dog breeding,” Reynolds said.
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