It’s a Great Time to Enjoy Oysters Responsibly!
Celebrate National Oyster Day by Enjoying Oysters Responsibly!
National Oyster Day took place on August 5th—marking the celebration of one of Cape Cod’s most iconic and sustainable seafoods. Oysters are more than just a local delicacy; they play a vital role in marine ecosystems and support a thriving coastal economy.
Cape Cod’s Shellfish Heritage
Our hardworking shellfish farmers and harvesters supply fresh, locally grown oysters that are enjoyed raw, fried, or baked year-round. Thanks to modern handling practices and strict state regulations, locally harvested oysters are among the safest in the world. In 2023, almost 48 million Massachusetts grown oysters were sold and were worth $28 million. Over 60% were grown in Barnstable County.[1]
What About Vibrio?
Vibrio bacteria occur naturally in coastal waters, especially during warmer months. While certain strains (like Vibrio parahaemolyticus, or Vp) can cause foodborne illness, the overall risk from eating raw oysters is extremely low, estimated at less than 1 illness per 100,000 servings. This equates to one case per million oysters served. [2]
How the Industry Keeps Oysters Safe
Massachusetts shellfish regulations require that oysters be iced within two hours of harvest, but they are often iced even faster in practice. This rapid cooling process is a critical control point that continues throughout the cold chain (steps taken to keep oysters consistently cold from harvest to table to prevent bacteria growth), from harvester to consumer, and is designed to limit Vibrio growth and maintain freshness.
Interested in learning more about how oysters are kept safe for consumption? Check out these training videos prepared by the Division of Marine Fisheries.
Who Should Be Cautious?
Like other raw seafood, consuming raw oysters is considered “high-risk” for certain vulnerable groups. These might include people with weakened immune systems or chronic conditions such as liver disease or diabetes, pregnant women, older adults, or young children.
Tips for Consumers
- Buy from reputable sources to ensure proper handling. At the very least, be sure your shellfish dealers are keeping product cold while on display or in storage.
- Follow local shellfish advisories if you are consuming your own harvest or oysters harvested by friends. For tips on how to harvest, store and prepare shellfish safely, visit Shellfish in Home – Barnstable County.
- Keep oysters cold until you’re ready to eat them. In other words, keep them on ice in a cooler or in a fridge. Never leave oysters sitting in the sun.
- Cook oysters thoroughly (145°F for at least 15 seconds) if you want to eliminate Vibrio risk.
Celebrate Safely
Cape Cod oysters are a point of pride for our community and a treat to savor year-round. This National Oyster Day, celebrate our local shellfish industry and enjoy oysters safely by following a few simple precautions.
[1] 2023 Division of Marine Fisheries Annual Report https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-division-of-marine-fisheries-annual-report/download
[2] See page 50…https://www.mass.gov/doc/2023-division-of-marine-fisheries-annual-report/download
Recipes
Check out these fantastic oyster recipes from our colleagues at the Cape Cod Cooperative Extension!
