Common painkillers used by humans can also affect Norway lobsters (Nephrops norvegicus), raising fresh concerns about the long-standing practice of boiling them alive as they feel pain, according to a study by the University of Gothenburg.
Researchers found that drugs designed to relieve pain in people can change the behavior of these crustaceans. The findings strengthen growing scientific evidence that lobsters may actually feel pain, not just show simple reflex reactions.
Scientists say this challenges long-held beliefs. For years, crustaceans were not thought to experience pain like mammals. However, recent research now suggests their nervous systems may be more complex than previously believed.
Electric shock experiments reveal distress responses
The study, published in Scientific Reports, examined how Norway lobsters respond to electric shocks. When exposed to water shocks, the animals reacted by rapidly flipping their tails. This behavior is widely linked to escape attempts and distress, not random movement.
However, the response changed when the lobsters were given pain relief before the test. Researchers used Aspirin and Lidocaine. In both cases, tail flipping was reduced or completely stopped when shocks were applied.
Aspirin was injected into the animals. Afterward, the lobsters began grooming their legs and claws, a behavior linked to stress. Lidocaine was dissolved in water and absorbed with fewer visible side effects. It also reduced the animals’ reaction to the shocks.
New study finds lobsters may actually feel pain and human painkillers affect them too. Scientists say this raises serious ethical concerns about boiling them alive and calls for more humane treatment. pic.twitter.com/TWAheKR4TH
— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) April 13, 2026
Researchers say these results suggest the behavior is linked to pain rather than a simple reflex. The fact that human painkillers work on lobsters points to shared biological processes.
Expert highlights ethical implications
Lynne Sneddon said earlier studies have shown that decapod crustaceans display signs of discomfort when injured, such as when a claw is forcibly removed. She said the latest findings strengthen the case that lobsters can experience pain similar to other animals.
She added that this similarity makes it important to rethink how crustaceans are treated, especially in food preparation.
Laws and industry practices under review
Several countries, including Norway, New Zealand, and Austria, have already banned the boiling of live crustaceans due to animal welfare concerns. Lawmakers in the United Kingdom are now considering similar steps.
The fishing industry is also exploring alternatives. One option is the use of electric stunning to reduce suffering before cooking. However, researchers warn that if this method is not applied correctly, it could cause more pain instead of preventing it.
Call for more humane treatment
Researchers say more studies are needed to better understand how crustaceans respond to pain and stress. The goal is to develop safer and more humane methods for handling and killing these animals.
Sneddon said the findings underline the need for greater responsibility, both in the food industry and in scientific research. She added that improving animal welfare should remain a priority as new evidence continues to emerge.
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