Archive · 25 Jul 2026

Lobsters chew food in their stomachs

Lobsters chew food in their stomachs

Lobsters have a unique way of eating.

Unlike humans, who chew food in their mouths, lobsters use a special set of teeth in their stomachs.

These teeth are part of something called a gastric mill.

When a lobster eats, its mouthparts help push the food into its stomach.

There, the gastric mill grinds the food into smaller pieces so it can be easily digested.

The gastric mill is made of a tough material called chitin, which is also found in the lobster's shell.

Scientists compare the gastric mill to a tiny food processor inside the lobster's body.

This special way of eating helps lobsters break down their food efficiently.

Sources