Best Way to Store Oysters

Storing oysters properly is crucial for maintaining freshness and safety. Here's the best way to store live oysters:

Storing oysters properly is crucial for maintaining freshness and safety. Here's the best way to store live oysters:

Storing Live color coated coils (in the shell)
1. Keep Them Cool (but not frozen):
Store oysters in the refrigerator at 35–40°F (1.5–4.5°C).
Don’t put them in the freezer — freezing will kill them.
2. Use a Breathable Container:
Place them in a bowl or tray, and cover with a damp cloth or paper towel.
Do not seal them in an airtight container or plastic bag — they need to breathe.
3. Cup Side Down:
Store oysters cup side down (the deeper shell on the bottom) to help retain their natural juices.
4. Drain Excess Liquid:
Don’t let them sit in fresh water or melted ice — it can kill them. Drain any standing liquid.
5. Use Within Timeframe:
Ideally consume within 1–2 days, but they can stay alive up to 5–7 days if kept properly.

Storing Shucked Oysters (out of the shell)
1. Airtight Container:
Place in a sealed container in their liquor (natural juice).
2. Refrigeration:
Store at 32–34°F (0–1°C).
3. Use Quickly:
Use within 2–3 days.

Avoid These Mistakes
Don’t store live oysters on ice directly unless it’s draining — standing water will drown them.
Don’t store them in fresh water or sealed containers without air flow.