The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is warning the public not to serve or consume certain raw mussels from British Columbia because they may contain paralytic shellfish toxins.

There have been no reported cases of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) associated with the consumption of the mussels, which have been recalled.

The recalled raw mussels were harvested between Oct. 2 to 14, 2011 from sub area 15-4, Okeover inlet in British Columbia. The recall involves mussels sold by:

— Aquatec Seafoods Ltd., Comox, BC Mussels, 10 lb bags, Lot #453 (Harvest date October 3/11) and 20 lb. bags, Lot #466 (Harvest date October 10/11)

— Taylor Shellfish Canada DBA Fanny Bay Oysters, Union Bay, BC, Farmed Salish Mussels, 10 lbs. 6206 (Harvest date Oct. 02/11), and 20 lbs. 6233 (Harvest date Oct. 9/11)

The recalled mussels were primarily distributed to wholesalers and restaurants, however, some may also have been sold in smaller quantities at retail seafood counters. Consumers who are unsure whether they have the recalled mussels are advised to check with their retailer or supplier.

The recalled mussels were distributed in British Columbia, Alberta and Manitoba, although they also could have been distributed in other provinces and territories.

Paralytic shellfish toxins are a group of natural toxins that sometimes accumulate in bivalve shellfish that include oysters, clams, scallops, mussels and cockles. Non-bivalve shellfish, such as whelks, can also accumulate the toxins.

These toxins can cause Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning. Symptoms of PSP include tingling and numbness of the lips, tongue, hands and feet, and difficulty swallowing. In severe situations, this can proceed to difficulty walking, muscle paralysis, respiratory paralysis and death in as quickly as 12 hours.

For more information, consumers and industry can the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 / TTY 1-800-465-7735 (8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday).

For more information on Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP), visit the Food Facts web page at: http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/fssa/concen/cause/pspe.shtml