Brazilian processors association ABIPESCA is reassuring consumers reluctant to eat seafood following a mystery oil spill, which is threatening fisheries off the northeast coast of the country.

Strict national legislation for all animal products requires that industrially processed fish must pass sensory analysis tests for freshness, histamine control, biotoxins or other toxins dangerous to human health, as well as the control of parasites, ABIPESCA said in a statement.

"Consumption of fish processed by industry under the Federal Inspection Service ensures the consumer necessary peace of mind in eating the healthiest and most beneficial protein for human health," the statement said.