Crabs, lobsters, and other crustaceans feel pain — a fact now supported by a solid body of scientific research worldwide. Yet in Ontario, they are not protected under the Provincial Animal Welfare Services (PAWS) Act, leaving them vulnerable to inhumane treatment in food preparation (such as being boiled alive) , transport, and storage.
We’re delighted to share an important milestone. The petition we launched four years ago — calling on the Ontario government to recognize the sentience of crustaceans and include them under the PAWS Act — was submitted to Queen’s Park on December 10, 2025. With the support of MPP Catherine McKenney and more than 1,000 people who signed and shared the petition, a meaningful step forward has been achieved.
We have also written to the Solicitor General regarding the petition, and we are encouraged by his response. The Honourable Michael Kerzner noted that the PAWS Act allows for potential opportunities to develop additional regulations in the future.
Other jurisdictions — including Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand — have already taken steps to protect crustaceans in light of the evidence. We are hopeful that Ontario will build on its leadership in animal welfare standards and introduce the necessary changes in the near future.
Thank you to everyone who signed, shared, and supported this work. This is an important step in a longer process — and GentleWays for OurPlanet will continue this effort until crustacean sentience is formally recognized and respected.
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Let us broaden the circle of compassion!