Bivalve mollusc (shellfish) harvesting areas are classified according to the extent of contamination shown by monitoring of E. coli in shellfish flesh. Treatment processes are stipulated according to the classification status of the area.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has statutory responsibility for ensuring that shellfish from designated harvesting areas meet end-product standards and are safe for consumers to eat. It is also responsible for operating adequate monitoring and classification plans.
Cefas manage the microbiological monitoring programme on behalf of the FSA, and local food authorities to undertake the sampling and have enforcement responsibility for areas within their jurisdiction.