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The State of Nevada, Shellfish
Certification Program, is responsible for inspection and
regulation of the shellfish industry within the state. In
1999 the State of Nevada adopted by reference the National
Shellfish Sanitation Program's, Model Ordinance. The Model
Ordinance outlines the Food & Drug Administration's
requirements for shellfish harvesters, processors, shippers
and wholesalers whose business involves providing clams,
mussels, oysters, and in some forms, scallops, across state
lines.
Specifically, the Model Ordinance
as it applies to Nevada, lists in detail the requirements
for providing a safe, wholesome product for public
consumption. Inspections at shell stock wholesalers are
designed to assure that all shellfish received within the
state are from certified dealers, (approved source), from an
area open to shellfish harvest, kept within proper
temperature parameters to limit pathogen growth, stored and
handled in a sanitary facility until delivery to a food
establishment.
It is the biology of the molluscan
shellfish that poses considerable problems for health
officials. Shellfish are filter feeders that continually
pass water through their system, filtering out the nutrients
as it passes. In the process, unwanted bacteria and viruses
from contaminated sources may also concentrate within the
tissues. In most cases, cooking will eliminate the harmful
effect of these contaminants. However, consumption of raw
shellfish may expose individuals to diseases such as: vibrio
parahaemolyticus and vibrio vulnificus. These diseases can
be especially dangerous to those with weak or impaired
immune systems.
The State of Nevada expects upwards
of 40 million visitors a year to enjoy its gaming,
recreation, entertainment, scenery and restaurants, making
it one the largest consumers of shellfish, per capita, in
the nation. The state shellfish program is tasked with
ensuring only the safest of products is available for
consumption.
Additional information regarding
shell stock certification can be found in: |
