Bivalve molluscs (such as mussels, clams, oysters or scallops) have been common in European’s diet since ancient times. They feed by filtering microscopic algae from surrounding water. During this filtering, they can accumulate microorganisms, marine biotoxins and chemical contaminants, which can lead to illness in humans. Therefore, the EU has strict rules to reduce or mitigate this risk to consumers. These are implemented by competent authorities on production areas where bivalve molluscs are produced and harvested.

This overview report describes how competent authorities have developed comprehensive official controls and what their main challenges are to ensure the implementation of these rules.

To read the report on safe production of live bivalve molluscs please click on the 'Read more...' link below.