FDA Issues Warning on Potentially Contaminated Shellfish from Oregon and Washington

Shellfish From These Areas Carries Risk of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning

The FDA has issued an alert advising consumers, restaurants, and food retailers in multiple states to avoid shellfish from specific harvesting areas in Oregon and Washington due to potential contamination with paralytic shellfish toxins (PSTs).

The affected shellfish include oysters and bay clams harvested from Netarts Bay and Tillamook Bay in Oregon on or after May 28, 2024, and all shellfish species from specific growing areas in Willapa Bay, Washington, harvested between May 26 and May 30, 2024. These products were distributed in California and other states.

• Oregon: Netarts Bay and Tillamook Bay, harvested on or after May 28, 2024.
• Washington:
  • Stony Point, harvested between May 26 and May 30, 2024.
  • Bay Center, harvested between May 29 and May 30, 2024.
  • Bruceport, harvested between May 29 and May 30, 2024.

Health Risks of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP): PSP is caused by neurotoxins known as saxitoxins. Symptoms can begin within 30 minutes of consumption and range from tingling and numbness to respiratory paralysis. Severe cases can be fatal due to asphyxiation. The FDA advises that PSP toxins cannot be removed by cooking or freezing.

• Consumers: Avoid eating the specified shellfish and seek medical attention if symptoms of PSP occur.
• Restaurants and Retailers: Dispose of the specified shellfish and prevent cross-contamination by following strict sanitation protocols.

Background: The Oregon Department of Agriculture and Washington State Department of Health initiated recalls due to elevated PST levels in the specified shellfish. The FDA is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary.

For more information, visit the FDA website.