GEORGE TOWN: The results of laboratory analysis of water and shellfish samples in the waters of Kuala Juru, Bukit Mertajam are at safe levels and comply with national food safety standards.

The Penang State Fisheries Department (JPNPP) in a statement yesterday announced that the test results found that the content of heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium and lead in shellfish samples were below the maximum limit allowed under the Food Act 1983.

"The inspection covered heavy metal parameters, water quality, plankton and marine biotoxins. Biotoxin analysis using the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method also recorded Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) toxin readings at low and safe levels.

"Microscopic analysis of water samples also confirmed the absence of toxic microalgae such as Alexandrium spp, Dinophysis spp and Pseudo-nitzschia spp which can cause the red tide phenomenon," according to the statement.

JPNPP also informed that ammonia and nitrate readings were also found to comply with the National Water Quality Standard Class IIA for the preservation of sensitive aquatic life.

The analysis was carried out by the Batu Maung Fisheries Research Institute (IPP) in collaboration with the Kuantan Fisheries Biosecurity Centre and the Selangor Fisheries Biosecurity Centre following complaints regarding pollution received from the local community.

Meanwhile, Penang Fisheries Director Azimah Jumatli said the results of the analysis showed that the condition of Kuala Juru waters and marine products in the area were still at safe and controlled levels.

Continue reading the full story at the original source: