Port dickson: Mussels and other shellfish from the waters off Port Dickson are now safe for consumption, after biotoxin levels in mussel samples taken on Sept 17 were found to be below 800 parts per billion (ppb).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Negeri Sembilan Fisheries Department (JPNS) director Kasim Tawe stated that mussel farmers using piling and raft systems in the waters stretching from Sungai Sekawang to Kampung Telok, Pasir Panjang, have been permitted to resume collection and harvesting activities immediately.

Kasim explained, "This is based on the findings of the Main Committee on Harmful Algal Bloom Cases, which confirmed that the level of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin in mussel samples taken on Sept 17 was below the 800 ppb threshold."

Monitoring and test results have consistently shown readings of less than 800 ppb for nearly four consecutive weeks, confirming the shellfish are safe for consumption. This marks a significant development since Aug 15, when JPNS issued a ban prohibiting farmers and operators from collecting or harvesting shellfish in the waters off Port Dickson due to PSP toxin levels exceeding the 800 ppb limit.

Kasim noted that the ban was in effect until monitoring was completed, and during this period, the public was advised against consuming shellfish from the affected area to avoid the risk of food poisoning. He also advised the public to dispose of any shellfish harvested during the prohibition period to ensure safety.