THE appearance of cockles that washed ashore along Terengganu's beaches recently captured widespread attention online.
Many wonder if this natural event signals any danger or potential health risks.
Is it true that these cockles are safe for consumption?
Verdict:
TRUE
Dr Roslizawati Ab Lah, lecturer at the Faculty of Fisheries and Food Science, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), explained that during the northeast monsoon season, strong winds, large waves, and certain beach structures often result in cockles being stranded along the shoreline.
Although the phenomenon may appear unusual, she said it is a natural occurrence and not a cause for concern.
The stranding of cockles on the beach is closely related to the beach's geographic structure, wave strength, and the direction and speed of wind during the northeast monsoon.
Strong winds and large wave movements carry the cockles to the shoreline.
Typically, these cockles remain in good condition and are safe to eat.
However, she noted that seafood enthusiasts keen to take advantage of the occurrence should exercise caution.
Cockles collected on the beach may have been exposed to bacteria or water contamination, so it is essential to clean them thoroughly before cooking.
The phenomenon also underscores the importance of marine and coastal ecosystems in maintaining environmental balance.
Previously, Terengganu Fisheries Department director Ruzaidi Mamat stated that laboratory analysis classified the cockles as Class B and C under the standards of the National Shellfish Sanitation Programme (NSSP), requiring thorough cooking before consumption.
He advised the public to ensure that any cockle they collected was properly cooked before consumption to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.
Ruzaidi said that the consumption of raw cockles should be avoided, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Source: Bernama
