The NSW DPI and NSW Food Authority has issued an urgent warning for public to not consume shellfish collected or caught in Eden’s Twofold Bay, due to the presence of paralytic shellfish poisoning resulting from an algal bloom.
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The toxic algae’s presence was first detected thanks to routine testing conducted by Eden Mussels, the only commercial mussel producer on the South Coast.
Eden Mussels’ co-owner Chris Boyton said the company conducted the tests ahead of harvesting its spring crop of 50 to 100 tonnes of mussels, the first crop for the company since production was wiped out by June’s storm event.
“We were shut anyway, but are now ready for harvest,” Mr Boyton said on Monday.
“Prior to re-opening - and to allow us a commercial harvest – we had to do these tests. They are habitually done every two weeks anyway, to test for E Coli virus and algae. Our tests revealed the paralytic algae. So we will remain closed until we get the all-clear.”
The all-clear will follow stringent laboratory testing by the DPI in Sydney and Melbourne, with results anticipated late this week.
Mr Boyton said he has no idea what caused the algal bloom in Twofold Bay, but said it’s most likely due to nutrient upwelling and warmer ocean temperatures.
For now, all he – and Eden – can do is wait until the coast is literally clear.
“The mussel concentrates the algae in its gut,” Mr Boyton said. “But once the algal bloom goes, the mussel digest its, breaks it down, and the toxins disappear and we can harvest.”
Mr Boyton said both mussels and water will be tested to confirm the absence of algae, and says everyone should be cautious in the meantime.
“I recommend that no-one eats shellfish out of the bay until we get clearance,” Mr Boyton said. “And anyone selling mussels pro-ported to be out of Twofold Bay needs to double-check their source, as we are certainly not producing and we don’t want our reputation affected.”
Authorities warn that the toxic algae, Alexandrium fundyense, remains a health risk even after cooking, with symptoms ranging from numbness around the mouth and vomiting, to respiratory failure, paralysis and even death.
“Anyone experiencing these symptoms after eating seafood from or near the affected area should seek immediate medical attention,” a NSW Food Authority spokesperson said.
