The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has issued an annual shellfish safety warning that will take effect on May 1 and remain in effect until at least October 31. This warning advises consumers not to eat sport-harvested mussels along the California coast in order to protect them from poisoning that can lead to serious illness.
Commercially harvested shellfish, whether from restaurants or fish markets, are exempt from this warning as they are subject to strict testing requirements by the CDPH and are certified by the department. Therefore, mussels available for commercial consumption are safe to eat.
The purpose of this annual mussel warning is to prevent paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) and domoic acid poisoning, also known as amnesic shellfish poisoning. These illnesses are caused by naturally occurring toxins that can be present in shellfish such as mussels and clams. Cooking does not eliminate these toxins, and early symptoms of poisoning include tingling of the lips and tongue followed by more severe symptoms like loss of balance, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing.
In severe cases, poisoning can lead to trouble breathing, confusion, disorientation and requires immediate medical attention. To reduce health risks, sport harvesters are advised not to eat any recreationally harvested mussels during the summer months starting on May 1st. More information about the quarantine PSP and domoic acid poisoning can be found on the CDPH website. For updates on quarantines and shellfish toxins individuals can call the CDPH Biotoxin Information Line at (800) 553-4133.
The Santa Barbara County Public Health Department also provides information on this annual shellfish safety warning to ensure public safety and awareness during this period.