Scallops (including fan shells and fan scallops) are a type of shellfish commonly found in seafood dishes. Steamed scallops are highly popular dish es . However, scallops (particularly their viscera) can accumulate various types of hazards (such as heavy metals, shellfish toxins and microbiological contaminants ) due to their habitat and feeding behaviour. The level of risk associated with consumption of scallops has actually a lot to do with how the scallops are prepared and cooked. As viscera of contaminated shellfish have a higher level of accumulated heavy metals, shellfish toxins and microbiological contaminants, they should be removed before cooking and only the adductor muscles should be consumed.
Advice to the Public
- Purchase shellfish from reliable source.
- Scrub and clean shells before cooking and have their viscera removed.
- Cook thoroughly and discard any cooking liquid before consumption.
- Consume a small amount of shellfish in any one meal. Maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive intake of certain types of food.