Health authorities have warned people not to eat recreationally collected shellfish from parts of southeast Tasmania after dangerous algal toxins were found in local waters.

The alert affects White Beach and nearby waters around Nubeena on the Tasman Peninsula. The warning was issued on 12 May 2026 and is still active.

Officials say toxic algal blooms, also known as harmful algal blooms, have been detected in the area. These blooms can produce toxins that build up in shellfish and may cause serious illness in humans.

People are being told not to eat wild shellfish collected from the affected area, including oysters, mussels, clams, pipis, cockles, wedge shells, abalone, periwinkles and scallop roe.

Health authorities also warned that rock lobster intestines and livers can sometimes be affected during toxic algal blooms.

Symptoms of shellfish poisoning can appear within minutes or hours after eating contaminated seafood. These may include tingling, numbness, weakness, blurred vision, vomiting, diarrhoea and difficulty breathing.

People with symptoms of paralytic shellfish poisoning are being urged to seek emergency medical help immediately. 

Authorities say cooking or freezing shellfish does not remove the toxins.

The warning only applies to recreationally harvested seafood. Commercial seafood sold in shops and restaurants remains safe because it is monitored through Tasmania’s shellfish safety program.

https://www.health.tas.gov.au/