![]() Oyster cultivation began over 2,000 years ago when the Romans harvested them from the Adriatic Sea and eventually, from all over the Mediterranean. Today, they are a popular commodity consumed around the world. The most recent oyster-related recalls occured in 20 due to contamination of multiple pathogens.Between 20, at least 340 oyster-associated outbreaks were reported to CDC’s National Outbreak Reporting System (NORS), causing 3,005 illnesses, 87 hospitalizations, and 3 deaths.These pathogens are associated with foodborne outbreaks and can lead to recalls and harvest site closures. Oysters are filter feeders and may harbor harmful pathogens, such as Vibrio, norovirus, and Hepatitis A in their tissue.To ensure the prevention of foodborne disease outbreaks, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) plans must be in place for processing, packaging, and storage of oysters. There are many harvesting and processing techniques.Oysters are among Florida’s top commercial seafood products in terms of dockside value. In addition to being popular culinary delicacies, oysters help protect coastlines, clean water by filtering, and provide a habitat for many other species such as fish, shrimp, and crabs. OYSTER SPAT FEED PROFESSIONALThe balance of the board members’ individual strengths and professional experiences, combined with their vested interest in the Town of Wellfleet and SPAT’s mission, are part of the reason why SPAT as an organization has been successful, and why the Wellfleet OysterFest® has become such a successful event. Members come from the fields of education, the shellfishing industry, area businesses, non-profit sectors and professional associations. Board members also draw from a diversity of professional experiences and disciplines that represent a unique mix of understanding, knowledge and skills that help direct the organization in the most beneficial way. Together as a group, the board represents individuals who are committed to a thriving shellfishing industry and are invested in the positive public perception of the Town of Wellfleet. The all-volunteer board is made up of ten elected members with three elected officers. The SPAT Board of Directors dedicates itself to ensuring that the organization’s mission is carried out to its fullest potential. To date, SPAT has awarded over $740,000 between the high school scholarship program, its community grants and pandemic relief efforts. Proceeds from these activities support the organization’s educational mission which includes a local college scholarship program, community grant awards and initiatives to support Wellfleet’s shellfishing and aquaculture industries. SPAT produces the Wellfleet OysterFest®, and holds several smaller programs and outreach events each year. Through events and seminars on shellfishing and environmental issues, SPAT celebrates and spreads the word about the town’s famous oysters and clams and its deep-rooted shellfishing traditions. SPAT promotes knowledge and interest in Wellfleet’s shellfishery by educating the community. ![]() The acronym SPAT is also the name for a newly attached baby oyster. SPAT is devoted to sustaining Wellfleet’s shellfishing and aquaculture industries. Wellfleet SPAT, Shellfish Promotion and Tasting, Inc., is a non-profit organization chartered in 2002 – the year after Wellfleet’s first OysterFest. This history created a fertile environment for the Wellfleet SPAT to emerge. Wellfleet, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, has been considered the home of one of the world’s great oyster beds for generations. As I ate the oysters, … and as I drank their cold liquor from each shell and washed it down with the crisp taste of the wine, I lost the empty feeling and began to be happy, and to make plans. ![]()
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