Toronto Debates Shark Fin Soup Ban

A delicacy that kills as many as 70 million sharks a year could soon no longer be legal in Canada's biggest city.

City councillors in Toronto will debate whether to ban the sale of shark fin soup today, following in the footsteps of fellow Ontario cities Mississauga, Oakville, and Brantford. The Chinese delicacy, which can cost up to $100 for a single bowl during special occasions, has been the subject of much criticism from animal-rights advocates, as upwards of 70 million sharks are caught each year to satisfy the demand. While shark fin is essentially tasteless, its chewy, crunchy texture is considered a luxury across China. A number of Toronto councillors have come out in support of a shark fin ban despite the impact one could have on dozens of Toronto restaurants. Fishing for sharks has been illegal in Canada since 1993, but the import of shark products remains legal.