Shetland analytics firm expands shellfish biotoxin testing service
Shetland Analytical Services has secured a distribution agreement with Montreal-based biotech company Sensoreal, expanding access to rapid biotoxin testing solutions for the UK shellfish industry.
Through the agreement, Shetland Analytical Services provides biotoxin testing services to shellfish growers submitting samples for analysis and, for those that can carry out their own biotoxin testing, it can supply Sensoreal kits. The company said this dual approach provides growers with flexible, practical options to suit their operational needs.
The tests detect amnesic, diarrhetic, and paralytic shellfish poisons (ASP, DSP, and PSP), providing a quick turnaround of fast and reliable results. This helps shellfish farmers meet regulatory requirements, safeguard public health, and make timely harvesting and marketing decisions.
Shetland Analytical Services managing director Steven Laidlaw said: “As biotoxin risks and algal bloom events continue to increase across UK coastlines, Shetland Analytical Services is committed to working closely with shellfish growers to protect product integrity and support sustainable aquaculture. By combining expert laboratory analysis with easy-to-use field kits, we are enabling growers to access dependable results when they matter most.”
The company, which operates a laboratory in Port Arthur, Scalloway, is expanding its work with shellfish companies across the UK.
