Joint FAO/IOC-UNESCO/IAEA guidance on monitoring of algal toxins in bivalve molluscs

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are naturally occurring phenomena, potentially exacerbated by global warming, that can severely impact aquatic ecosystems and aquaculture operations. Certain algal species produce potent toxins that can pose serious risks to human health through the consumption of contaminated seafood, especially bivalve molluscs. A variety of gastrointestinal and neurological illnesses associated with these seafood products have been reported over the years, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO (IOC) called for a Joint Expert Meeting on Marine Biotoxins and Harmful Algal Blooms Monitoring to develop joint FAO/IOC‑UNESCO/IAEA guidance on monitoring algal toxins in bivalve molluscs. This guidance is intended to support the development of sampling, analysis and management approaches for harvesting and production areas to determine the level of toxins in bivalve molluscs and the occurrence of toxic microalgae, and to comply with market requirements. The guidance can be used as a roadmap by regional and national authorities and institutions to establish and implement monitoring and management programmes for marine toxins and HABs, or to expand or enhance existing programmes. The guidance also covers aspects related to pre‑harvest monitoring and to post‑harvest batch testing. Additionally, it includes monitoring of microalgae, which can help in managing the risk of toxins contaminating bivalve molluscs intended for human consumption.