Fish, squid, prawns, in PD waters safe for consumption, says Negri Fisheries Dept

Negri Sembilan Fisheries Department conducted a second sampling of mussels and shellfish in Port Dickson waters, following the biotoxin readings exceeding the safe level detected in the first sample. Kasim (left) said laboratory test results last week found the biotoxin readings to be over 800 parts per billion (ppb), making the seafood unsafe to eat as it could cause health problems. – BERNAMApic

PORT DICKSON: Fish, prawns and squid in the waters of Port Dickson remain safe for consumption, says Negri Sembilan Fisheries Department.

Its director, Kasim Tawe, said marine life such as fish and prawns are safe to eat as these species look for their own food unlike the majority of cockles and mussels that are bred.

"Fish, prawns and species that move around aren’t dangerous, but mussels and cockles are because they’re bred, they absorb food from feeding filters for consumption.

"Their ability to keep toxins in their bodies is much higher and if it is in excess it can cause poisoning and affect human health,” he told reporters after taking the second sea water sample from Port Dickson here on Tuesday (Aug 12).

The results of the second sample is expected on Thursday and the department will announce the next move based on the results.

He said mussel breeders and cockle gatherers in the area have been advised to stop looking for, gathering or harvesting shellfish temporarily. — Bernama