As a precautionary measure, the Louisiana Department of Health has closed Oyster Area 3 and recalled oysters harvested from the area due to non-life threatening illnesses reported. In light of the recent closure, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is working alongside Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, the Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, and the Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA) to encourage the consumption of Louisiana oysters harvested outside of Area 3 and all other Louisiana seafood during the busy Super Bowl weekend.
“Louisiana is known for its world-renowned seafood. With the arrival of thousands of fans from all over the world to New Orleans for Super Bowl LIX, many will be trying Louisiana seafood, maybe for the first time. By working quickly with our partners, we are able to keep our seafood safe for consumption and want to encourage all of those in the Sportsman’s Paradise this week to enjoy Louisiana seafood from any local restaurant,” said LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan.
Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, who oversees the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marking Board and the Louisiana Seafood Safety Task Force, stated: “Louisiana Seafood is a premium product with a unique flavor resulting from the waters where it lives and grows. Chefs nationwide swear by our seafood—its freshness, quality, and flavor bring value and diners to their restaurants daily. We are so thankful that we have testing protocols in place so that we can quickly determine the source when these issues arise. Now, we can confidently say all seafood, other than the oyster identified, is safe to consume.”
It is important to note that all Louisiana oysters harvested outside of Area 3 as well as all other Louisiana seafood statewide is safe for consumption and that Oyster Area 3 is only one of 30 Oyster Areas that are harvested along Louisiana’s coast.
“The Louisiana Restaurant Association works closely with the Louisiana Department of Health and Wildlife and Fisheries to communicate any issue regarding our Louisiana seafood supply chain. The safety of our renowned Louisiana seafood is always front of mind,” said Stan Harris, President and CEO of the LRA.
For more information on the recent Oyster Area 3 closure and recall, please visit LDH’s website or call 800.256.2775. You can view their recent press release here: LDH recalls oysters and closes Oyster Harvesting Area 3 | La Dept. of Health
About The Louisiana Restaurant Association
The Louisiana Restaurant Association (LRA), is the restaurant industry's trusted advisor within the state. Our mission is to deliver value to our members by advancing and protecting Louisiana's restaurant and hospitality industry while driving economic prosperity and creating jobs. Click here to view their website.
About The Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board
Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board promotes shrimp, crab, crawfish, oysters, finfish and alligator. As the nation’s second-largest seafood supplier, Louisiana provides an incredible array of superior-quality seafood to restaurants and homes across the country. Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board supports this industry with programs that encourage the use of Louisiana seafood by consumers and commercial interests. Louisiana Seafood Promotion & Marketing Board was created to support Louisiana’s world-class seafood industry. Click here to view their website.