FISH collected from close to the Elgin gas leak platform have passed a taste test.
No taint of hydrocarbons was found in the samples.
Over the weekend Marine Research Vessel Alba na Mara collected fish, water and sediment samples from the edge of the two-mile exclusion zone around TOTAL’s Elgin platform, 150 miles offshore from Aberdeen.
The first-stage testing of the fish samples involved the specially trained panel of sensory testers at Marine Scotland Science in Aberdeen, who can detect the taint of hydrocarbon contamination in fish.
Full chemical testing of all environmental samples is continuing, with initial results expected by the end of this week.
Scottish Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said: "The environmental impact of this gas leak has been minimal so far, however it’s important we take precautions and analyse all available data.
"Therefore it’s reassuring that sensory testing of the fish samples gathered by the Alba na Mara have found they are untainted by hydrocarbons.
"Full chemical analysis work - including water and sediment samples - is ongoing and will provide further clarification on any impact.
"Marine Scotland Science have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to carry out this work effectively, including the UK’s only specially trained sensory panel.
"We will continue our monitoring activities for the duration of this incident, so we can assess any impact on the marine environment and respond as needed."
