Warning on toxic mussels after harmful algae blooms spotted
EXPERTS have issued a warning on toxic shellfish after harmful algae blooms were detected.
The Marine Institute has found levels of naturally-occurring compounds in species such as mussels that can make people sick and are warning against recreational gathering of them.
The discovery was made in recent weeks during routine nationwide monitoring programmes along the southwest and west coasts.
This increase is common at this time of the year due to a microscopic phytoplankton species that frequents our shorelines during the summer months.
The compounds they produce can accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish and can make people sick, even if their meal is cooked.
The toxins are high levels of Diarrheic Shellfish Poisoning which can result in a temporary gastroenteritis-like illness and a less common Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning, which can be fatal.
Dave Clarke, manager of the Marine Institute’s Shellfish Safety programme, said: “‘In Ireland, we operate a world-class shellfish
Mussels safety programme to ensure food safety prior to harvesting.
“This sophisticated monitoring programme is designed to protect the consumer and ensure the highest quality of Irish shellfish on international and home markets.
“This summer, so far, has seen high levels of toxic phytoplankton and toxins in shellfish requiring temporary closures until the problem abates.
“It is stressed, however, that these only affect shellfish.
“Swimming and other coastal recreations are not affected.
“We would strongly advise the public to avoid picking their own shellfish along the shoreline and to only source shellfish from an approved retail establishment.”
As people begin to go back to the coast for recreation in coming weeks, the risk of public harvesting of shellfish such as mussels, clams, cockles or oysters for consumption will increase.
The Marine Institute’s website indicates up-to-date information on affected areas, based on weekly testing in all shellfishproducing bays around the country.
Further details are available at its Harmful Algal Blooms website webapps.marine.ie/habs.