Could PETA Potentially Put an End to Crawfish Boils in Louisiana?

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Could PETA put an end to us using our boiling pots in Louisiana? They'd sure like to.

If PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) has its way, we can kiss our traditional Louisiana crawfish boils goodbye.

Louisiana is known for two things... It's hospitality and its food! There's nothing like gathering around a steaming hot pile of crawfish complete with corn and potatoes to bring people together. Did you know that several countries have actually banned the boiling of crustaceans like crawfish, shrimp, and lobster over concerns for their health and well-being? It's true. I know there always seems to be one stray crawfish making a run for it at Mudbug Madness, but I'm pretty sure it's just a mudbug making a dash. It's not like he knows his kin are boiling, right?

So, why do we boil shellfish live? It's because it reduces the risk of severe food poisoning and possibly even death. That sounds like a good enough reason to me!

According to PETA, shellfish, namely lobsters, aren't so different from us. They say science has proven that they feel pain and have a full array of senses... and that being kept in a restaurant tank can contribute to their stress. Goodness knows we don't want stressed-out lobsters!

PETA says that crawfish are much the same. They're sensitive and also get nervous and anxious... and just like us, secrete the hormone Serotonin to combat said stressors.

Apparently, PETA isn't alone in its stance regarding shellfish being sentient.  The United Kingdom is the latest country to adopt the new Animal Welfare (Sentience) Bill as law. However, it hasn't stopped restaurants in the United Kingdom from boiling lobsters and crabs live yet. Similar legislation has been enacted in countries like New Zealand, Norway, and Switzerland.

What's even crazier is that this lawyer out of Washington state says it's already illegal to boil lobsters live in the United States. His reasoning is convoluted but sound. However, I don't foresee the Feds knocking down your door because you hosted a crawfish boil.

What do you think? Will they ever ban boiling crustaceans live here in the U.S.? I'd love to hear your thoughts. Shoot me a message using the 'chat' feature in our free app or send me an email at erin.bristol@townsquaremedia.com.