In New York, it is shockingly still legal to serve marine animals alive on a plate, a reality hidden behind a practice known as ikizukuri. This method of sashimi preparation involves slicing fish or octopus while they’re still fully conscious, causing prolonged suffering as they slowly and painfully die.
Animal welfare advocates have long called for an end to this archaic so-called custom. Now, Assembly Bill A8926, introduced by Assemblyman Patrick Burke (D–Buffalo), aims to do just that. The bill would amend New York’s public health law to make it illegal to prepare seafood while the animal is still alive.
“This is needless suffering, and it has no place in our state. Assembly Bill A8926 would finally ban this barbaric practice. But it won’t pass without your voice,” said Voters For Animal Rights on social media.
If passed, the bill would take effect 30 days after becoming law. It would also empower regulators to create any additional rules necessary to enforce the ban. But passing A8926 will require strong public pressure. Without it, this cruel practice could continue unchecked in New York restaurants.
Scientific research has shown that fish and octopus are sentient beings capable of feeling pain, fear, and stress. Allowing them to be mutilated alive for so-called “freshness” is both sick and inhumane.
You can help end this cruelty by telling your New York State lawmakers to support Bill A8926 and ban ikizukuri once and for all.
TAKE ACTION! Sign Voters for Animals Rights’ petition HERE!
