Public warned against consuming washed-up seafood at Elands Bay

Officials from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment warned the public not to eat or sell any washed-up lobsters or fish at Elands Bay on the West Coast.

A red tide caused mass die-offs of West Coast rock lobsters and other fish species. 

The department said exposure to toxic algae and bacteria in these animals could lead to serious illness or even death.

Department spokesperson Thobile Zulu-Molobi said the exact time of death was unknown, making it impossible to ensure any stranded seafood was safe.

"The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment confirms that a red tide condition along Elands Bay on the West Coast has resulted in large marine walkouts and mortalities, particularly West Coast rock lobster and other fish species in and around Elands Bay," said Zulu-Molobi. 

"The public is warned that washed-up lobster and fish are not safe for human consumption".