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How to store oysters
Follow our four steps below to store fresh oysters. Top oyster bars, restaurants and hotels in the UK use this same method to store oysters.
Step 1
Upon receipt, open the box of oysters and check that the shells are closed and unbroken. See 'Tap Test' below.
Step 2
Clean the oyster shells with a stiff brush under cold running water. After that, place the oysters 'cup down' on the Simply Oysters Oyster Tray or a another flat tray. That way, if the oysters open slightly while stored, the oysters' liquor (clear pool of seawater in the oysters' shells) should remain within the cupped shell.
Step 3
Cover the oysters with a damp - not wet - tea towel or cloth. Check to make sure the tea towel or cloth remains damp while the oysters are stored in the fridge.
Step 4
Place the tray in the coldest part of the fridge - on the shelf closest to the freezer. The fridge temperature should not be lower than 4 degrees; ideally between 4 and 8 degrees.
Tap Test
Oysters should be closed and unbroken. However, oysters can open slightly while in transit or stored in the fridge (this is normal). If any oyster has opened, simply tap the oyster firmly on the bench and it should close. If the oyster closes when tapped, it means the oyster is fresh and fine to consume. Discard any oyster that does not close when tapped, or has a broken or cracked shell.
How to store clams, cockles and mussels
Follow the above method to store clams, cockles and mussels. For the best flavour cook and consume within 2 days from delivery. Once cooked all clams, cockles and mussels should open. Discard any clams, cockles and mussels that have not opened once cooked.
How to store scallops
Follow the above method to store live scallops. Note: Live scallops do not always close tight - this is normal. Shuck scallops as soon as possible on the same day as delivery. There are lots of of videos on You Tube on how to shuck scallops. Once shucked, rinse the scallop meat under a cold running water. Store fresh shucked scallops in a sealed container or wrapped in cling film, and store in the fridge. For the best flavour cook and consume fresh shucked scallops within 2-3 days.
Best before guide for oysters/shellfish
Store oysters and other shellfish in the fridge as described above, and:
Consume Pacific and Kumamoto Oysters within 5-7 days from delivery;
Consume Native Oysters within 3-5 days from delivery;
Consume clams, cockles and mussels within 2-3 days from delivery;
Consume scallops as shown above under 'How to store scallops'.
Important: Do not store live oysters, scallops, clams, cockles and mussels in sealed containers; or on ice; or in water or in the freezer. Oysters can be consumed raw or cooked. Scallops, clams, cockles and mussels must be cooked prior to consumption.
