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The prefecture of Charente-Maritime yesterday prohibited the sale and consumption of all shellfish from the area, after toxin levels higher than the legal level were discovered.

 

All products harvested since 17 March have had to be recalled and withdrawn from the market, to protect public health.  People who have consumed shellfish since 17 March, and who are feeling unwell and experiencing stomach problems, should be checked by a doctor.

 

Toxin levels which were eight times higher than the accepted legal level were discovered through routine testing of the coastal waters, and whilst experts have yet to uncover the reasons for the problem, the areas affected were the same areas hit by storm Xynthia at the end of February.  It is believed that the storm may have affected the eco-system of the area, which also includes the south of Vendee. 

 

Oyster farmers were quick to react to the order, with many having to unload lorries that were ready to supply markets this weekend.  Some supplies from Wednesday however are likely to still be in transit towards northern Europe.

 

The last time oyster basins were closed by the prefecture was in 1993, but the industry has gone through difficult times over the last few years.  In 2008 a virus was responsible for killing off the stock of young oysters, putting many farmers in dire financial straits.

 

A public information meeting will be held on Monday at the Salle Polyvalente in Marennes (4pm).  Further tests of the water will be carried out during the coming days, but the prohibition order will remain in place until at least two consecutive positive tests have been observed.

 

 

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