A wet market is a term used to describe an outdoor area where fresh meat, fruit and veg is sold, some of which sell live animals including wildlife. As veterinary professionals we have an interest and obligation to both animal and human health and welfare; the concept of ‘One health’.  The current COVID-19 virus has highlighted wet meat markets as potential reservoirs for zoonotic infections as well as some being cruel towards animals. Whilst differences in culture have to be taken into account there is no excuse for the ill treatment of animals in any context, including for food. The WHO and local governments need to address the overall regulation of wet markets, take action against the animal welfare breaches which occur in live markets and address the demand for certain produce generally through educating and working with people to find alternative methods and sources of producing food/medicine etc.