Every year, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) releases a warning to the public about the dangers of eating sport-harvested mussels along the state’s coastline. This year, the warning will take effect on May 1 and will remain in place until at least October 31. The purpose of this warning is to protect the public from serious illness caused by paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) and domoic acid poisoning, which are both caused by naturally occurring toxins found in shellfish like mussels and clams.
While commercially harvested shellfish is exempt from this warning, consumers should still exercise caution when dining out or purchasing seafood from fish markets. This is because while commercial harvesters undergo strict testing requirements to ensure their products are free of harmful toxins, there is always a possibility of contamination. Therefore, it’s important to only consume shellfish that has been certified by a reputable organization or agency.
In severe cases, PSP can lead to trouble breathing, confusion, and disorientation, requiring immediate medical attention. To reduce health risks during this period, individuals should avoid eating recreationally harvested mussels during the summer months starting on May 1. More information about the quarantine and PSP can be found on the CDPH website, as well as updates on any changes or updates regarding quarantines and shellfish toxins via the CDPH Biotoxin Information Line at (800) 553-4133.