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S02018: Scallop portion size study

Monday 17 January 2005

This research project collected data on scallop purchase and consumption, and investigated the size of an average scallop portion, in and out of home, across five European countries.

Study Duration : October 2003 to September 2004

Contractor : Sea Fish Industry Authority

Results and findings

This study was conducted by the Sea Fish Industry Authority to establish the size of a scallop portion, in and out-of-home, in key European markets. FSAS supported this project in conjunction with 9 other organisations including local authorities and Enterprise groups.

Data on scallop purchase and consumption was collected from five European countries (the UK, France, Italy, Spain & Belgium). The weights of scallops (whole, gonad and adductor muscle) purchased in each country were also analysed. The project concluded that the average weight for a notional scallop portion both in home and restaurants across the EU is approximately 100g, only 40% of the assumed figure of 250g on which the regulatory limit for domoic acid is based. The findings of this work will be used to inform the planning and interpretation of future toxicological studies into domoic acid.

Dissemination information

The final report is available from the FSA Library and Information centre.
To obtain a copy, please contact the Enquiry Desk, Dr Elsie Widdowson Library and Information Services, Food Standards Agency ( tel: 020 7276 8181/8182 or email: library&info@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk )

Contact : Email : science@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk

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