Human Painkillers Reduce Lobster Pain, Adding Evidence to Crustacean Suffering

In a groundbreaking study that could reshape our understanding of animal welfare, scientists have discovered that common human painkillers can alleviate pain in crustaceans. Researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden administered aspirin and lidocaine to Norway lobsters, observing a notable reduction in their pain-related responses when subjected to electric shocks. This finding provides further evidence that creatures like lobsters and crabs experience pain, a realization that has already prompted several countries, including Norway, New Zealand, Austria, Switzerland, and the UK, to ban the practice of boiling them alive. The study, published in Scientific Reports, highlights the need for greater empathy and improved handling practices for these marine animals, suggesting that stunning them with electric shocks before cooking may be a more humane alternative.

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The fact that human painkillers also work on Norway lobsters shows how similarly we function.