California Ban on Raw Gulf of Mexico Oysters

On April 14, 2003 the State of California announced an emergency regulation that limits (bans) the sale of raw Gulf of Mexico oysters during the months of April through October, unless the raw oysters have been treated with a post-harvest treatment that has been scientifically validated to reduced Vibrio vulnificus in oysters to non-detectable levels. Currently, the California Department of Health (CDH) recognizes two such PHT methods, HPP and cold-temperature pasteurization. The CDH is also officially reviewing the commercial, rapid freezing of oyster meats as a third potential, scientifically validated PHT method.

For more information, visit the ISSC webpage devoted to this issue at: http://www.issc.org/ca/ca_page.htm

The LSU AgCenter Communications department produced a video news release about the subject, interviewing two LSU Ag Center and LA Sea Grant extension personnel:

In addition, a written news article was released on May 5, 2003 by the LSU AgCenter Communications department, and can be found at the following link:

http://www.lsuagcenter.com/Communications/news/May2003/
Headlines/OysterBan-05-05-03.htm