FDA Warning on Contaminated Shellfish in Oregon and Washington States

SOURCE www.foxnews.com
The U.S. FDA warns against consuming shellfish from Oregon and Washington states due to contamination with paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins. At least 31 people in Oregon have been sickened. The toxin is produced by algae and can cause numbness, vomiting, diarrhea, and other severe symptoms. Cooking or freezing contaminated shellfish does not make them safe to eat.

Key Points

  • FDA advises avoiding shellfish from specific areas in Oregon and Washington due to contamination with paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins.
  • At least 31 people in Oregon have fallen ill due to the toxin.
  • Symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning include numbness, vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty breathing.
  • The toxin is caused by algae and cannot be eliminated by cooking or freezing the contaminated shellfish.

Pros

  • FDA warning helps prevent potential health risks associated with paralytic shellfish poisoning.

Cons

  • Impact on the shellfish industry in the Pacific Northwest, leading to economic losses and job impacts.