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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
World
Petra Stock

Do prawns feel pain? Why scientists are urging a rethink of Australia’s favoured festive food

Australia Culum Brown
Prawns for sale at the Sydney fish market
Scientists say there is evidence that crustaceans are sentient and are able to experience fear, pain and distress. Photograph: Steven Markham/AAP

Crustaceans are a festive season staple for many families, particularly in Australia where an estimated 18.5m kilograms of prawns and more than 150,000 lobsters are eaten over Christmas and new year.

Globally, trillions are caught and consumed each year. Australia is a major producer, with prawn, lobster and crab industries valued at more than $1bn.

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