Banning Cruelty: New Legislation Aims To Ban Octopus Farming In The U.S.

New bipartisan legislation has just been introduced in the U.S. to ban commercial octopus farming and prohibit imports of farmed octopus from foreign countries.

The Opposing the Cultivation and Trade of Octopus Produced through Unethical Strategies (OCTOPUS) Act would proactively protect octopuses from inhumane farming conditions before the industry has an opportunity to develop in the United States. The new bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK).

Octopuses have remarkable cognitive abilities, allowing them to learn new skills, navigate complex mazes, and use tools. Known for their escape artistry, these intelligent beings have high enrichment needs that are not met in farming environments.

Confining these solitary animals in intensive farming conditions is inhumane, leading to stress, aggressive behavior, and high mortality rates. Additionally, traditional methods of slaughtering octopuses, such as clubbing, slicing, asphyxiation, and chilling, are extremely inhumane.

“Scientists have proven that octopuses are complex, intelligent creatures who can feel a full range of emotions. Instead of exploiting them, we must protect this dynamic species who suffer terribly in confined settings,” said Animal Legal Defense Fund Legislative Affairs Manager Allison Ludtke. “The Animal Legal Defense Fund applauds Sen. Whitehouse and Sen. Murkowski for taking the first step to ensure the United States sets a global precedent for octopuses’ welfare.”

“Octopuses are among the most intelligent creatures in the oceans. And they belong at sea, not suffering on a factory farm. My bipartisan bill with Senator Murkowski would preemptively prevent U.S. companies from participating in this brutal practice before it takes root,” said Whitehouse.

Octopus farming raises environmental concerns, such as increased nitrogen and phosphorus runoff, which can lead to pollution and algal blooms that create low-oxygen dead zones. Additionally, antibiotics and pesticides used to control diseases and parasites may contaminate wild fish, disrupting food chains and harming marine ecosystems.

The critical bill is endorsed by 21 organizations, including the Humane Society of the United States, Animal Legal Defense Fund, Animal Welfare Institute, Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), and Aquatic Life Institute.

Similar legislation has been enacted in Washington state (H.B. 1153) and has been proposed in Hawaii (H.B. 2262) and California (A.B. 3162) at the state level.