Why did House of Seafood use live crabs in a claw machine?

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House of Seafood's Use of Live Crabs in Claw Machine Explained

House of Seafood's chief executive officer, Francis Ng, stated that the restaurant's initiative to use live crabs in a claw machine was primarily for educational purposes. The intention was to provide children with an opportunity to learn more about marine life, specifically crabs, including how to differentiate between male and female specimens. The restaurant also implemented specific measures to minimise any potential discomfort to the crabs.
Educational Aims for Children

The core motivation behind placing live crabs in the claw machine was to serve an educational function, particularly for younger visitors. Ng articulated a desire for children to gain a better understanding of crabs and the broader marine ecosystem. This included learning practical distinctions, such as identifying the sex of a crab, fostering a more engaged and informative experience beyond just a game.
Measures to Minimize Crab Discomfort

In an effort to mitigate any adverse effects on the crabs, the restaurant incorporated several design features into the claw machine. According to Ng, these included the use of sponge and rubber tips on the machine's claws. Additionally, the setup featured an elevated tank and cushioning on the base, all intended to reduce any pain or harm that the crabs might experience during the game.
Apology and Shift in Promotion

Following public concern regarding animal welfare, House of Seafood, through Francis Ng, issued an apology for the distress caused by the claw machine. The restaurant has since decided to cease using live animals in the machine across all its global outlets. Instead, the claw machines will now contain boxes, which customers can win and exchange for crab meat dishes, such as black pepper or chilli crab.

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Why did House of Seafood use live crabs in a claw machine?

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