Expiration & Storage Tips
When does oyster expire?
Oysters, being delicate and highly perishable, don't last very long. They're often sold live and should be eaten on the day of purchase, especially if you plan to eat them raw. Unopened, refrigerated live oysters can last up to 5-7 days, so long as they remain cold and their shells are firmly shut. Once they’ve been removed from their shells, however, things speed up and they'll only remain edible for about 2 days in the refrigerator. Freezing is an option, in which case they can stay good for up to three months, but it's recommended to use them for cooking, not raw dishes upon defrosting. To defrost, simply put them in the refrigerator overnight.
How do you tell if oyster is bad?
To check if an oyster has gone bad, look at it, smell it, and feel it. An expired oyster often gives off a pungent odor that isn't present in fresh ones, somewhat like rotten eggs. Regarding appearance, if the shell is open and doesn't close when tapped, it's likely dead and unsafe to eat. Bad oysters can also appear dry or shriveled inside their shells. Remember, when it comes to oysters, 'When in doubt, throw it out.'
Tips for storing oyster to extend shelf life
• Store live oysters in a colander with their round side down, set over a bowl in the refrigerator. Cover them with a damp cloth but never submerge in water - they can drown.
• Never store oysters directly on ice or in a sealed container - they need to breathe.
• If you've shucked oysters and have leftovers, store them in the fridge in a sealed container submerged in their own liquid for up to 2 days.
• To freeze, place unopened oysters in a freezer-safe bag and get as much air out as possible. Remember to label and date the bag.
• Always keep them at the back of the fridge, where it's coldest. The temperature should be under 4°C (39°F).
• After thawing frozen oysters, use them as soon as possible and never refreeze.