High Levels of Shellfish Toxin

Monitoring work undertaken on behalf of Food Standards Scotland has identified raised levels of shellfish toxins in Loch Leurbost in Lewis and Loch Seaforth, East Loch Tarbert and Sound of Scalpay in Harris.

Eating shellfish such as mussels, cockles, or razor fish from these areas may pose a risk to

human health and notices to warn the public and casual gatherers will be posted at

various locations on the shore. Commercial shellfish harvesters in these areas have been

contacted by the Comhairle and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels

subside.

It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

The Comhairle is monitoring the situation and will remove warning notices when it improves.