Surprising News About Cancer: New Regulations Proposed for Crayfish
In a shocking turn of events, new rules may be introduced regarding the treatment of crayfish. As summer approaches, the consumption of crayfish and lobster becomes increasingly popular. However, the way these aquatic creatures are prepared for consumption may now undergo a major change.
Recent research has revealed that crustaceans, including crayfish, are capable of feeling pain and experiencing severe discomfort. This discovery has prompted discussions about implementing new regulations to ensure the welfare of these animals during the slaughtering process. Svenska Dagbladet is reporting this groundbreaking development.
The Swedish Agricultural Agency has taken the initiative to seek guidance from an expert group regarding whether arthropods, such as crayfish, can indeed experience pain and suffering. The Swedish University of Agriculture will provide the necessary information to determine whether new legislation should be implemented to protect these creatures.
“We were surprised by the extensive body of research supporting the claim that ten-legged crustaceans are sentient beings capable of feeling pain,” says Albin Gräns, an associate professor of biology, in an interview with SvD.
Currently, the Swedish Animal Welfare Act covers the treatment of all animals capable of experiencing pain and suffering. This means that animals kept by humans should be treated well and spared unnecessary suffering, even during the process of slaughter and killing. However, there are no specific regulations on how crustaceans and mollusks should be handled during these procedures.
If arthropods are included in future animal welfare legislation, it could lead to new requirements for their treatment, including during slaughter. Albin Gräns explains, “When it comes to large crustaceans such as crabs and lobsters, it takes time before they die when boiled.”
In Sweden, there are two species of freshwater crayfish – the native river crayfish, Astacus astacus, and the implanted signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus. The native crayfish is found in southern Sweden and along the Norrland coast, extending all the way to the Finnish border. The signal crayfish, on the other hand, is primarily found south of the Dalälven river, with only a few populations found further north, according to the World Wildlife Fund.
The introduction of new regulations for crayfish and other crustaceans not only highlights the importance of animal welfare but also aims to ensure ethical treatment throughout the food production process. As discussions progress, it will be interesting to see how this new research influences the future treatment of these fascinating creatures.
Photo: S. Moody
Text: The Editors