The following raw mussels, harvested 3 November, 2011 from Area: BC 13, sub area 13, are affected by this alert:
These mussels were primarily distributed to institutional clients such as restaurants.
However, the affected mussels were sold as "Sawmill Bay Mussels" between 4 to 6 November at one retailer, Daily Catch, which is located at 1418 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, British Columbia. Consumers who are unsure whether they have the affected product are advised to check with their retailer or supplier.
There have been no reported cases of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) associated with the consumption of these mussels.
Paralytic shellfish toxins are a group of natural toxins that sometimes accumulate in bivalve shellfish that include oysters, clams, scallops, mussels and cockles. Non-bivalve shellfish, such as whelks, can also accumulate PSP toxins. These toxins can cause PSP if consumed.
Symptoms of PSP include tingling and numbness of the lips, tongue, hands and feet, and difficulty swallowing. In severe situations, this can proceed to difficulty walking, muscle paralysis, respiratory paralysis and death in as quickly as 12 hours.
