B.C. Officials Warn Shellfish Harvesters About Contamination Risks
BC shellfish safety: check beach closures, licences and contamination warnings Protect your health with SHELLI updates and safe handling before you eat
As summer begins in British Columbia, officials are reminding people who harvest or buy shellfish along the coast to check rules and safety warnings before eating their catch.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada says anyone collecting clams, oysters, crab, or prawns needs a tidal waters sport fishing licence and must follow beach closures, which are posted when contamination risks rise because of bacteria, fecal pollution, chemical spills, or heavy rain.
Health officials say contaminated shellfish can cause stomach illness and infection, especially when eaten raw or undercooked. They recommend checking the federal SHELLI map, following storage and cooking guidance, and seeking medical care if symptoms appear after eating shellfish.