November 27, 2024

2024 11 25 – Biotoxin Update (6) – Mussel samples only 

General Information
Area openings are dependent upon regular submission and analysis of samples for biotoxin analysis, as set out in a biotoxin monitoring protocol administered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).  

Three consecutive mussel samples, along with a sample of the targeted food species containing acceptable levels of biotoxin must be received in order for CFIA to recommend lifting a harvest restriction in an area.  CFIA will recommend lifting the biotoxin prohibition and a harvest site can then be considered by DFO for fisheries openings.  Once an area is open, on-going submission of mussel samples is required to maintain the opening.  CFIA will recommend closure of the harvest area to DFO if there is a lapse in sample submissions or if unacceptable levels of  toxin are detected (>80 ug STXdiHCl eq/100g; >20 ppm domoic acid (ASP); >0.2 ug /g Okadoic Acid /DTX Toxin and/or Pectenotoxin (DSP)).

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Lax Kw’alaams Fisheries at:
250-627-8509 or [email protected]

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