ACRES & SPCA Visits House Of Seafood After Crab-Walking Publicity Stunt
Recently, House of Seafood (HOS) was thrust into the spotlight after their CEO was seen taking crabs for strolls.
While the unusual activity amused many, others expressed concerns about the crustaceans’ welfare.
On Tuesday (22 Jun), ACRES and SPCA shared they had visited the restaurant and highlighted the need for higher welfare standards when dealing with live animals.
ACRES & SPCA visit House of Seafood
On Monday (21 Jun), folks from ACRES and SPCA visited HOS and spoke to its owner, Mr Francis Ng, about their recent publicity efforts.
This came after many wrote in with concerns about the crabs’ welfare.
During their discussion, Mr Ng shared that the restaurant only brought the crabs out for a short duration to pose for photos.
Image courtesy of House Of Seafood
He also showed them how the crustaceans are kept in the restaurant.
House of Seafood incidents highlight need for standard of conduct
This isn’t the first time that HOS has come under the spotlight over crab welfare concerns.
Back in 2019, the restaurant received backlash after they put up a live crab claw machine. Many claimed that the move was tasteless and cruel towards crabs.
After the incident, SPCA allegedly provided the restaurant with detailed guidelines on crab welfare.
ACRES said that such cases highlight the need for a standard code of conduct for individuals and businesses involved in Singapore’s live food animals trade.
Guidelines under review
From storage, handling, and display in food establishments, live animals are put under a lot of stress, said the animal welfare group.
ACRES wrote that business owners should, at the very least, ensure the animals do not undergo more undue stress or discomfort.
Elaborating, they said this is not just for the welfare of the animals but also for food safety.
The Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS) is reportedly reviewing the current guidelines with ACRES and SPCA.
In a separate Facebook post, SPCA reiterated the need for higher standards in the industry and assured that they would work with stakeholders on the matter.
Marketing stunts ought to be tactful
While it’s understandable for businesses to promote themselves through marketing stunts, they ought to be tactful. That’s especially if live animals are involved.
Hopefully, this incident prompts businesses to realise the gravity of such moves and learn to treat animals with care.
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Featured images adapted from House of Seafood and Google Maps.Â
