Evaluation of the marketing methods and handling of live shellfish (American lobsters) for the purpose of sale as food: First evaluations in Piedmont, Italy

Some species of crustaceans pose problems during marketing, being sold alive. Food Business Operators (FBO) have the need to adopt specific measures based on opinions and guidelines of national and international associations. This investigation was aimed at evaluating the practices in use in the marketing of live crustaceans in Piedmont. Twenty-three plants were analyzed using checklists and through physical and chemical measurements of the water in the holding tanks. The situation appears uneven in the application of Good Handling Practices (GHP), management of animals and knowledge of FBO. Only 48% of the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point plans had a dedicated section. Immobilization of the claws was the option identified to control aggressiveness. Dead animals are mainly identified as Category 3 instead of other hygienically safe options. Only 1/3 of interviewed can indicate the slaughtering methods recognized as most suitable for these animals. The aquariums show a good state of maintenance and most of evaluated parameters complaint to GHP except for nitrites (35%). In conclusion, the situation reflects the different levels of knowledge of the FBOs. Therefore the veterinarian of the public health service can propose itself as a reference point for specific training.