The Food Standards Agency Scotland announced today that the last east coast ban on fishing for scallops has been lifted.


The move follows sampling which showed that toxins which cause Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP) have dropped to a level at which there is no longer a risk to consumers.

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A scallop fishing ban was imposed on the east coast on 19 October. Today’s action means that this entire ban has now been lifted.


Part of the ban imposed on the west coast has also been lifted today.


Re-sampling continues to be carried out in other areas closed to scallop fishing. As soon as levels of ASP fall to safe levels the areas will be reopened.


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  1. Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP) is caused by naturally occurring algal blooms which can extend over considerable areas.

  2. FEPA Order East Coast (No. 2) was imposed on 19 October 2000. FEPA Order West Coast was imposed on 1 August 2000.

  3. Re-sampling of closed areas is carried out and two separate samples showing safe levels are required, with at least a week between each, before an area can be reopened.

For further information, media should contact Louise Bisset, Media & Communications Office,

on 01224 285127.

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