Due to the detection of toxins, the Hérault prefecture on Friday temporarily suspended fishing, collecting and marketing of shellfish from the Thau lagoon.
Only oysters, which did not show any contamination, as well as shellfish harvested before May 10, are not affected by the ban.
"This temporary measure will be lifted as soon as the health security conditions are met for a reopening of the production areas", indicates the prefecture, which recalls that cooking "does not destroy toxins".
“Even after cooking, the shellfish remain unfit for consumption.
Those in possession of these products are asked not to consume them and to bring them back to the point of sale.
"
This phenomenon "will disappear naturally in the days or weeks to come"
In a press release, the Mediterranean Shellfish Committee indicates that this contamination is caused by the appearance of a natural microalgae, dinophysis.
"Although very rare in the Thau lagoon, dinophysis is the most widespread toxic species in Europe," continues the professional body.
This temporary phenomenon will disappear naturally in the days or weeks to come.
"
The Thau pond is regularly hit by this type of ban.
In 2014 and 2016, for example, professionals were severely impacted as Christmas approached.
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Languedoc-Roussillon
Montpellier
Oysters
Consumption
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