Saldanha Bay, Western Cape – South Africans have been issued a strong warning to avoid collecting or consuming any shellfish from Saldanha Bay and surrounding coastal areas following the detection of dangerously high toxin levels.The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) issued the alert after routine monitoring revealed extremely elevated levels of Paralytic Shellfish Toxins (PST) in mussels and oysters from aquaculture farms in the bay. Tests conducted on 25 May 2026 showed toxin levels more than 15 times above the regulatory safety limit.
The warning is linked to a significant harmful algal bloom, particularly involving the toxin-producing phytoplankton Alexandrium catenella. Consuming contaminated shellfish can lead to paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP), a serious condition that affects the nervous system and can be life-threatening in severe cases.As a precautionary measure, all shellfish production areas in Saldanha Bay have been closed for harvesting intended for human consumption until further notice. The DFFE has urged the public not to collect wild shellfish from the area, as toxin levels may vary and the full extent of the contamination along the West Coast is still unclear.
Saldanha Bay is South Africa’s largest and deepest natural harbour and serves as a major centre for commercial mussel and oyster farming. The bay’s nutrient-rich waters make it one of the country’s most important aquaculture regions, supporting local jobs and the seafood industry.Authorities recommend that consumers only purchase shellfish from reputable retailers with proper traceability and health certification during this period.This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing harmful algal blooms in South African coastal waters, which are influenced by the Benguela Current system.Alleyeson.co.za advises residents and visitors in the Western Cape to heed the warning and stay updated via official DFFE channels.
"Saldanha Bay Shellfish Warning Issued – Paralytic Toxins Detected. Public urged to avoid all local shellfish."
