Rustlers Spark Killer Oyster Scare

[mrmoshe]

Rustlers spark killer oyster scare

Nearly 5000 oysters have been stolen from NSW oyster farms, prompting a warning to seafood lovers that eating black market oysters could be fatal.

The NSW Food Authority today warned consumers to purchase oysters from reputable sellers following a spate of thefts along the state's coast.

In the latest incident, 4800 oysters were stolen in the past week from a farm at Nambucca Heads, on the mid-north coast.

Food Authority director general George Davey said the oysters were a potential health risk if eaten.

"We have had a spate of these thefts along the coast in the past few months. Not only is it theft but it is also extremely reckless and potentially very dangerous," he said.

"Oysters are filter feeders and any toxins or dangerous substances in the water can accumulate in the flesh and anyone who consumes or buys these oysters has no way of knowing what they're getting."

Black market oysters could contain any number of bacteria and, if eaten, could cause serious food poisoning and could even be fatal, a Food Authority spokesman said.

NSW Primary Industries Minister Ian Macdonald also said it was important consumers buy oysters from reputable sellers.

[Davemmm]

Of course they would tell us not to eat them.