My friends and I have engaged in countless conversations with fellow Canadians and discovered a recurring sentiment: many of us are profoundly shocked and distressed by the sight of fish, lobsters, and crabs cramped into small tanks in grocery stores, waiting to be selected and ultimately killed for consumption. This practice, for many, seems increasingly outdated and unnecessarily cruel in a country that values animal welfare.   

We call on major Canadian retailers including Loblaw Companies, Sobeys, Metro Inc., and T&T Supermarket to phase out the use of live seafood tanks in their stores.

The reality is that these animals often endure prolonged confinement in these tanks solely to offer consumers the perception of acquiring 'slightly fresher' seafood. However, what price are these creatures paying for this marginal gain in freshness? Studies indicate that lobsters, crabs, and even fish experience stress and suffering from being held in unnatural environments with limited space and poor water quality. They are not fed either and in some stores lobsters claws are tied together.   Often many are simply chucked away if not purchased.

Animal welfare is a core value in Canada, reflected in our evolving laws and societal standards. Yet, the existence of live seafood tanks in supermarkets and restaurants starkly contrasts with these principles. It's time to reconsider this practice and seek alternatives that align with our commitment to ethical standards and humane treatment of animals.

There are viable solutions that do not compromise freshness or consumer satisfaction. Aquaculture, responsible and sustainable fishing practices, and advanced methods of preserving seafood quality can provide the fresher options consumers seek without the ethical concerns.

Let's advocate for change by urging grocery stores and restaurants across Canada to phase out live seafood tanks. By doing so, we can demonstrate our dedication to being a forward-thinking nation that respects and protects all its creatures.

Sign this petition to call on businesses and policymakers to prioritize compassionate food industry practices that reflect Canada's values. Let's make a combined effort to phase out live seafood tanks and foster a kinder, more humane society.