Kassim, pictured here with samples taken for the second round of testing, says PD mussels and other shellfish are now safe for consumption. – BERNAMA filepic
SEREMBAN: Mussels and other shellfish from Port Dickson waters are now safe for consumption, after biotoxin levels in mussel samples taken on Sept 17 were found to be below 800 parts per billion (ppb).
Negri Sembilan Fisheries Department director Kasim Tawe said mussel farmers using piling and raft systems in the waters stretching from Sungai Sekawang to Kampung Telok, Pasir Panjang, have also been allowed to resume collection and harvesting activities with immediate effect.
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"This is based on the findings of the main committee on harmful algal bloom cases, which confirmed that the level of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) toxin in mussel samples was below the 800ppb threshold.
"Monitoring and test results on mussel samples from the area have consistently shown readings below 800ppb for nearly four consecutive weeks. Therefore, the shellfish are safe for consumption,” he said on Monday (Sept 29).
On Aug 15, the department prohibited farmers and operators from collecting or harvesting shellfish off Port Dickson after mussel samples were found to contain PSP toxin levels exceeding 800ppb.
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Kasim said the ban would remain in force until monitoring was completed, during which the public was advised against consuming shellfish from the affected area to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
He added that those who bought shellfish harvested during the prohibition period are advised to dispose of them. – Bernama
