A History of Pain Studies and Changing Attitudes to the Welfare of Crustaceans

Early discussions about possible pain in crustaceans often comprised speculation and anecdotes. Experiments to investigate pain took guidance from these early debates, and from studies on other taxa. Many experiments provided data that are consistent with the idea of pain. However, that does not mean that pain has been proved, but they open the possibility. With each study that is consistent with pain being felt, the probability increases, but we will probably never have conclusive proof. Some responses appear to be nociceptive reflexes; however, they at least indicate that the animal responds to stimuli such as tissue damage, heat, acid, alkaline, or electric shock. The data are said to be consistent with pain only if they cannot be explained by reflexes. These studies have encouraged various organisations to improve the welfare of crustaceans, e.g., PETA, Crustacean Compassion, RSPCA, British Veterinary Association, UFAW, and HSA. They also formed much of the evidence included in the highly influential review of sentience for the UK government that resulted in the inclusion of decapod crustaceans in the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act 2022. This recognises that decapod crustaceans are sentient. By contrast, the New York Declaration recognises there is a possibility of sentience. Others have argued against the idea of pain in crustaceans. Nevertheless, the 2022 Act provided an impetus to groups that campaign for improved welfare. Some UK retailers now require improved slaughter techniques for the shrimp/prawn they sell, and electrical stunning is the preferred slaughter method.