The British Columbia Shellfish Growers Association (BCSGA) is calling for more government accountability related to recent oyster recalls linked to potential norovirus contamination.
BCSGA sent a release about the issue in response to a recent article in the Vancouver Sun which found that over the past six years, one-third of all recalls triggered by Canadian oysters came from Baynes Sound on Vancouver Island. The story detailed incidents of illness caused by norovirus – which is frequently linked to improperly treated sewage.
“The headline and edits used in that article suggest B.C. oysters are currently making people sick. This is not true. B.C. oysters are safe to eat,” the BCSGA said. “Harvesting continues across the province, and the vast majority of production remains unaffected. The closures referenced stemmed from a contamination event last December – not from current harvests.”
BCSGA said community comments suggesting oyster farmers are harvesting and growing oysters in an unsafe manner are off the mark.
“Farmers follow strict regulations, voluntarily close areas when risks are suspected, and work hard to protect public health. Oysters harvested in BC and sold to consumers today are safe – as they are for the overwhelming majority of the year,” the association said.
BCSGA said the intent behind its contribution to the article was to draw attention to the challenges oyster farmers are facing in the area related to norovirus, not to suggest that oyster farmers are somehow to blame for the recalls.
“These closures are not the result of farming practices but of human impacts such as aging wastewater infrastructure, septic systems, and vessel discharge,” it said. “Farmers are doing their part, but solutions require government action. The tools to address root causes – upgrading wastewater systems, monitoring pollution sources, and improving response protocols – rest with federal, provincial, and municipal agencies.”
The Vancouver Sun article outlined the ongoing economic impacts of the recalls and the reputational damage that the recalls are having on B.C. oysters. BCSGA said the industry is calling for better regulatory tools, transparency, and a partnership with the government to safeguard water from pollution.
“We encourage the public to continue enjoying BC oysters with confidence and call on all levels of government to work with us on lasting solutions to protect consumers and this vital industry,” BCSGA said.
