High levels of shellfish toxins

MONITORING work on behalf of Food Standards Scotland has identified raised levels of shellfish toxins in Loch Seaforth, East Loch Tarbert (Sound of Scalpay) and Loch Stockinish in Harris.

Eating shellfish such as mussels, cockles or razor fish from these areas may pose a risk to human health and notices to warn the public and casual gatherers will be posted at locations on the shore.

Commercial shellfish harvesters in these areas have been contacted by the comhairle and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

The comhairle is monitoring the situation and will remove warning notices when it improves.