shellfish care

Ever wondered how to keep your shellfish alive out of the water? This page will answer all those questions. We’ll provide you with educational tips and insider knowledge as to how you can keep your shellfish in the best condition possible.

How To Properly Store Your Shellfish:

There are different ways to take care of various types of shellfish. If you follow these methods you’ll ensure the shellfish you buy will maintain their flavor and shelf life to the best extent possible.

Just remember, your shellfish is alive! Do not freeze your live shellfish before cooking it.

  1. Temperature: Whether you’re a commercial distributor or home consumer, you should be holding your shellfish products in a refrigerated environment at 35-40 degrees Fahrenheit.

    1. The number one problem in storing shellfish is temperature abuse (when they’re allowed to get warm) so keep your shellfish cool as this will slow their metabolism and  keep them fresh-tasting longer.

  2. Air: If you’re a home consumer or restaurant, your shellfish may have arrived in a plastic bag. If so, make sure the top of the bag is open or there are holes in the bag to allow the shellfish to breath! Remember, they are living creatures and you are trying to keep them alive and fresh!

  3. Ice: When not refrigerated, keep your shellfish on ice with proper drainage.

Click the tab below to learn more on how to properly store your shellfish.