Test results on 74 hairy crab samples collected recently for chemical and microbiological analysis are satisfactory, the Centre for Food Safety says. They were tested for parasites, heavy metals synthetic hormones and veterinary drug residues.

Despite the satisfactory results people should be careful when purchasing and eating hairy crabs, and local traders should import crabs with health certificates.

The centre has also liaised with the Customs & Excise Department to strengthen control measures against the importation of crabs from dubious sources.

People should maintain a balanced diet and avoid eating too many hairy crabs, particularly the cholesterol-rich roe and sperm. Patients with chronic illnesses should eat hairy crabs in moderation.