Raised levels of shellfish toxins identified at island loch

A shellfish health warning has been issued over a popular Western Isles loch.

Monitoring work undertaken on behalf of the Food Standards Agency has identified raised levels of shellfish toxins at East Loch Roag on Lewis.

“Eating shellfish such as cockles, mussels or razor fish from these areas may pose a risk to human health and notices to warn the public and casual gatherers have been posted at various locations on the shore,” said a spokesman for Western Isles Council.

“Commercial shellfish harvesters in these areas have been contacted by the council and steps taken to postpone harvesting until algae levels subside.

“It is a sensible precaution to avoid eating shellfish from these areas until further notice.

“The council is monitoring the situation and will remove warning notices when it improves.”