Oysters 101
World renowned. Sustainable. As nature intended.
Prince Edward Island oysters may have a rugged exterior, but on the inside it’s a whole different story. Fresh and plump, PEI oysters have a distinctive and desirable flavour that embodies salty-sweet essence of the ocean thanks to the Island’s unique merroir.
Indeed, it is the cold, shallow bays and caves around PEI that create the perfect beds for our oysters to flourish. The result is pure bliss for oyster lovers the world over.
Check out our interactive Oyster Map and Guide and see for yourself what makes our oysters so special!
How to Buy Oysters
Not sure what to look for when buying oysters?
Here are some tips to keep in mind when making your purchase.
- Look for oysters that have tightly closed, undamaged shells.
- Tap any “gaping” or slightly open shells. If they close, they’re still good. If not, say goodbye.
- If the oyster makes a hollow sound when you tap it, it’s lost its liquid and should be tossed.
- Give the oyster a shake and listen carefully. Skip it if you hear a sloshing sound.
- Shucked oysters should smell like the ocean and be surrounded with clear (not cloudy) liquid.
How to Store
Retain the flavour of your oysters with proper storage tips from our PEI oyster pros.
Do not leave in water.
Place oysters flat side up and cover with a wet cloth in a refrigerator set between 34ºF and 38 ºF (1.111℃ and 3.3333℃).
Live oysters can be stored for up to three weeks
Do not store in closed containers or bags.
Once shucked, oysters’ freshness lasts for about a week.
Brush oysters under running water just prior to using.
How to Shuck & Serve
Shuck like a pro.
Shucking oysters might look challenging, but once you get your knife into it, it’s easy-peasy.
Watch this video for tips on how to shuck and serve like a pro.
3 Ways to Impress
Serve oysters with a variety of sauces. Be sure to include a classic mignonette which consists of a diced shallot + vinegar + pepper and that’s it! It can be that simple.
Serve oysters with a lively splash of fresh lemon juice this brightens and allows you to appreciate their rich flavor.
Serve oysters with a variety of sauces like a Classic mignonette which consists of a diced shallot + vinegar + pepper and that’s it! It can be that simple.
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