Care and Handling

Spanish Version

Care and handling of oysters

Handling

Please handle shellfish with care. They are living creatures and alive when we sell them to you. Properly handled shellfish will remain in superior condition until you consume them. Mishandled and thermally-abused shellfish will increase your loss rate and can increase the chance of illness.

Cold storage

  • Oysters: Stack oysters cup side down (flat side up) in a bowl or dish, cover with a damp towel, and refrigerate below 45*F. Never store oysters covered in either fresh or salt water. Oysters should be used within one week of purchase.
  • Clams & Mussels: There is no need to stack clams or mussels. Place in bowl, cover with damp towel, and store below 45*F for up to three days.

Washing

Gently wash shellfish under clean, cold water. Scrub with a fiber brush if necessary.   When washing clams, place in bowl and cover with cold fresh water. Briskly agitate clams and discard any that are gaping open or dead. Repeat this until all clams appear clean (about four times).