Shellfish Biotoxin Warning

New Zealand Food Safety is advising the public not to collect or consume shellfish gathered from Queen Charlotte Sound due to a high paralytic shellfish toxin (PSP) risk.

The warning extends from Anakiwa up to a line from Dieffenbach Point across to West Head.

Routine tests on shellfish have detected Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxins above the safe limit of 0.8 mg/kg.

In addition, PSP levels in mussels farmed near Collingwood have risen in recent weeks and are nearing the unsafe limit. The public are warned that shellfish gathered from the shore near Collingwood could also have elevated levels of toxins.

Do not collect or eat shellfish from this area. Cooking the shellfish does NOT remove the toxin. If anyone becomes ill after eating shellfish from an area where a public health warning has been issued, phone Healthline for advice on 0800 61 11 16, or seek medical attention immediately.

For full details of this warning, please visit the MPI website:
Go to the MPI website