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A prepackaged scallop (¤é¦¡¤¸¨©) sample taken under the food surveillance programme for tests by the Centre for Food Safety (CFS) was found to contain Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin.
¡@¡@"The level detected is 246 micrograms/100 grams. PSP toxin can cause symptoms such as numbness of the mouth and extremities and gastrointestinal discomfort. In severe cases, paralysis with respiratory arrest and even death may occur," a CFS spokesman said today (September 16).
"PSP toxin is a natural toxin sometimes found in bi-valve shellfish. It is heat-stable and cannot be destroyed through cooking.
"The sample was collected from a supermarket in Tai Po. Regarding the unsatisfactory sample, the CFS has taken follow-up actions, including tracing the source of the scallop, asking concerned supermarket to stop selling the food in question and issuing a warning letter to the supermarket.
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"We are closely monitoring the situation," a CFS spokesman said.
¡@¡@Following are some precautionary measures to avoid shellfish poisoning:
* Buy shellfish from reliable and licensed seafood shops;
* Remove the viscera, gonads and roe before cooking, avoid consuming the cooking liquid and eat a small amount of shellfish in any one meal;
* Children, patients and the elderly may be susceptible to poisoning and should be cautious in consuming shellfish;
* When symptoms occur after consuming shellfish, seek medical advice immediately.
Ends/Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Issued at HKT 20:30
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