Galician mussels drive significant seafood industry growth

Galician mussels represent a significant economic and nutritional resource in Spain. Last year, the industry generated over 124 million euros from the cultivation of approximately 178,000 tons across more than 3,400 floating nurseries, primarily in the rías of Arousa, Ares-Betanzos, Muros-Noia, Pontevedra, and Vigo.

Beyond their economic value, these mussels are highly nutritious, providing essential levels of vitamin B12, selenium, iron, phosphorus, and zinc. The product holds a protected designation of origin recognized by the EU. To ensure food safety, the Instituto Tecnolóxico para o Control de Medio Mariño maintains a permanent surveillance network to monitor for biotoxins and red tide phenomena, which can lead to the temporary closure of harvesting areas.