Guide To Eating Raw Oysters

Raw oysters can be consumed right after shucking and can be accompanied by a hearty grain bread when serving. Contrary to common belief, you don't need to suck down the oyster without chewing. Take a few bites before swallowing to enjoy the flavor of the meat. To keep your raw oyster-eating experience safe, you need to take precautions during handling.

Storage

Raw oysters should always stay separated from cooked foods to avoid contamination. Store the oysters in a well-ventilated container at a temperature between 34 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit until you are ready to serve them. If you plan to freeze the oysters, keep them in the freezer for no more than three months and allow 24 hours to thaw in the refrigerator before serving, the Florida Department of Health instructs.

Shucking

Before you shuck the raw oysters, place them in the freezer for at least 10 minutes. This relaxes their muscles and can make shucking less taxing. Scrub shells with a brush and clean water for a couple of minutes before shucking. Protect your hand by covering it with a towel, then placing it on top of the oyster to keep it steady. Insert an oyster knife into the hinge of the oyster and twist the knife to pry open the shell. Slide the knife around the perimeter of the shell to remove the muscle and be able to take off the top of the shell.

Eating

The oyster should have an opaque color and you want to see seawater in the shell. Move your oyster fork under the meat to make sure it has detached completely before attempting to eat the oyster. Place the wide end of the oyster shell against your mouth when you are ready to eat. Tilt the shell slightly and slurp up the meat. Chew a couple of times, then swallow the meat.

Safety

Certain individuals should not eat raw oysters due to the risk of death and complications from food-borne illnesses. According to the SafeOysters.org website, if you have blood, kidney or liver diseases, you should avoid raw oysters. Also, individuals with cancer, AIDS, diabetes or chronic alcoholism are advised to avoid raw shellfish. If you are pregnant, your doctor will likely advise you to avoid raw and undercooked shellfish.