Abstract
As they have an effective filter-feeding mechanism, bivalve molluscs can be used in the assessment of contamination of marine environments to measure parameters related to microbiological contaminants. Given this public health problem, a depuration system is necessary. This study aimed to conduct a literature review on depuration, the systems used, the water disinfection processes combined with a sanitizing agent, such as chlorine, ultraviolet light (UV) or ozone. Therefore, depuration can be an efficient way to reduce pathogenic bacteria in molluscs, but more studies should be conducted to confirm the efficiency of this process under non-experimental conditions and on an industrial scale.
Highlights
Bivalve molluscs are filter-feeding aquatic invertebrates characterized by the presence of shells formed by two valves
In the production and marketing of bivalve molluscs, Brazilian legislation includes safety regulations regarding the presence of microorganisms in fish products
The process of depuration depends on the level of risks related to fecal pollution that affects the areas of cultivation or extraction of bivalve molluscs
Summary
Bivalve molluscs are filter-feeding aquatic invertebrates characterized by the presence of shells formed by two valves. Oysters, cockles, and scallops are examples of bivalves (Brasil, 2012) These filtering organisms feed on sediments from the water column, capturing small phytoplankton and zooplankton species. In the production and marketing of bivalve molluscs, Brazilian legislation includes safety regulations regarding the presence of microorganisms in fish products. Cockles or mussels that are purchased alive and eaten cooked by the consumers must be submitted to the depuration process, as commercialization does not guarantee the elimination of the causative agents of diseases (Souza et al, 2021). The United States counts on a National Shellfish Sanitation Program, with regulations based on interstate commercial agreements recognized by the FDA (National Shellfish Sanitation Program, 2003) This program aims to promote and value the production of shellfish in the country, standardizing regulations among the American states. The present study aimed to perform a literature review on depuration in bivalve mollusks from cultivation areas that pose a risk to the consumers’ health
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