Leading Supermarkets Move Forward to End Lobster Cruelty
New report highlights progress in humane treatment of crabs and lobsters, while major brands fail to act
A growing number of UK supermarkets are taking action to improve the welfare of crabs and lobsters, according to a new report from animal welfare group Crustacean Compassion. However, some major retailers continue to allow controversial practices such as boiling animals alive, freezing them while conscious, and live dismemberment.
The Snapshot Report 2024, released today, assesses supermarkets and seafood processors on their treatment of decapod crustaceans—species legally recognised as sentient beings since 2022. While retailers such as Marks & Spencer, Waitrose, and Sainsbury’s have introduced measures to ensure humane slaughter, others, including ALDI, Amazon, ASDA, and Iceland, have made little to no progress.
Crustacean Compassion CEO Dr. Ben Sturgeon acknowledged improvements in some areas but criticised the industry for failing to implement change across the board.
“We have seen some companies take significant steps, but too many are still ignoring the issue. Crabs, lobsters, and prawns feel pain, yet they continue to be subjected to cruel treatment,” Dr. Sturgeon said. “Companies must adapt or risk losing consumer trust.”
The report found that two-thirds of assessed companies had improved their policies since 2023. Marks & Spencer and seafood processor Young’s Seafood were highlighted as leaders, demonstrating a commitment to humane stunning before slaughter. Other retailers, including Tesco, Ocado, Morrisons, Co-op, and Lidl, have also made progress. However, critics say that without industry-wide commitments, inhumane practices will persist.
Polling by YouGov (2025) indicates strong public support for stricter welfare standards, with 71% of respondents backing legal protections for decapod crustaceans and 75% supporting humane slaughter methods.
Marks & Spencer’s Aquaculture & Fisheries Manager Linda Wood said the company remains committed to high welfare standards. “This year, we’ve worked closely with partners to innovate and improve conditions for all decapod crustaceans in our supply chain,” she said. “Progress has been made, but there is still much more to do.”
Crustacean Compassion is calling on the seafood industry to implement clear welfare commitments, including banning live boiling, ensuring humane stunning, and increasing transparency around welfare policies.
“The best companies are proving that higher welfare standards are possible,” Dr. Sturgeon said. “There is no excuse for those still failing to act. The industry must evolve and leave outdated, inhumane practices behind.”