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Warning: Toxic Shellfish in Firth of Thames

5/3/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New Zealand Food Safety has issued a crucial warning: avoid harvesting or eating shellfish from the Western Firth of Thames due to dangerous levels of paralytic shellfish toxins. Mussels, oysters, and scallops are particularly affected, and cooking won't neutralize the threat. However, kina, paua, crab, and crayfish remain safe when prepared properly. Thankfully, no illnesses have been reported yet.

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Story summary

New Zealand Food Safety has issued a crucial warning: avoid harvesting or eating shellfish from the Western Firth of Thames due to dangerous levels of paralytic shellfish toxins. Mussels, oysters, and scallops are particularly affected, and cooking won't neutralize the threat. However, kina, paua, crab, and crayfish remain safe when prepared properly. Thankfully, no illnesses have been reported yet.