The RSPCA believes that all crustaceans that are used for food and other purposes must be killed humanely as soon as possible after capture. This is because crustaceans experience pain and suffering and should be given the same respect and consideration that other animals are given.

The attached guidelines PP G1 Humane Killing and processing of Crustaceans have been prepared by the RSPCA to assist in the humane killing and processing of crustaceans. They apply to crustaceans intended for both raw consumption (sashimi) or cooked.

Unacceptable methods include the removal of any part of the animal while it is still alive, placing the animal into fresh water (causing osmotic shock, through absorption of water into the cells), placing live crustaceans into boiling water, or serving any crustacean live for
consumption.