People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has taken legal action against the Maine Lobster Festival, labeling the practice of steaming lobsters as “egregiously cruel.” The lawsuit, filed on July 24 in the Knox County Superior Court, targets both the festival and the City of Rockland, requesting the court to label the event a “public nuisance” and to halt the steaming of live lobsters.
PETA argues that the festival infringes on the public’s right to enjoy Harbor Park, as they contend that approximately 16,000 live lobsters endure extreme suffering during the event. PETA Foundation Director of Litigation, Asher Smith, emphasized the organizationās goal to end what they describe as “municipally supported cruelty” and restore a compassionate environment for local residents.
In response, the Maine Lobster Festival and the Rockland Festival Corporation refuted PETA’s claims, asserting that their lobster preparation methods comply with time-honored culinary practices, legally accepted globally. They also pointed out that there is no definitive scientific evidence suggesting that lobsters experience pain comparable to that of mammals.
The case has sparked significant discussions about animal rights and culinary traditions, as PETA continues its efforts in advocating for ethical treatment in various contexts.
Source: www.foxnews.com
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