Seafood
raw pacific oyster.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeKosher
ALSO KNOWN AS
pacific oyster
SERVING
CALORIES
81
PROTEIN
9.4g
CARBS
5.0g
FAT
2.3g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories81kcal—
Protein9.4g19%
Carbohydrates5.0g2%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat2.3g3%
Saturated fat0.51g3%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol50mg17%
Water82.1g—
MINERALS
Sodium106mg5%
Potassium156mg3%
Calcium8.0mg1%
Iron5.1mg28%
Magnesium22mg5%
Phosphorus135mg11%
Zinc16.6mg151%
Copper1.6mg176%
Manganese0.33mg14%
Selenium77µg140%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A48µg5%
Vitamin C3.7mg4%
Vitamin D0.10µg1%
Vitamin E0.85mg6%
Vitamin K0.10µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.07mg6%
Riboflavin (B2)0.19mg15%
Niacin (B3)1.5mg9%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.50mg10%
Vitamin B60.05mg3%
Folate (B9)10µg3%
Vitamin B1216µg667%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Extremely high in zinc, which is vital for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.
- ✓Excellent source of Vitamin B12, essential for nerve function and the formation of red blood cells.
- ✓Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- ✓Good source of high-quality protein and essential minerals like iron, copper, and selenium.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1To serve raw, shuck carefully with an oyster knife, keeping the oyster level to retain its liquor. Serve immediately on a bed of crushed ice with lemon, mignonette, or hot sauce.
- 2When cooking, be careful not to overcook. Grill, broil, or bake just until the edges begin to curl to maintain a tender texture.
- 3Before shucking, scrub the shells thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- 4For safety, especially for those with compromised immune systems, it is recommended to cook oysters thoroughly to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store live oysters in the refrigerator at 34-40°F (1-4°C), cup-side down, and covered with a damp cloth. Do not store in a sealed container or submerged in water.
- For optimal freshness and safety, consume within 2-3 days of purchase, although they can last up to a week if stored correctly.
- Discard any oysters that are open and do not close when tapped, or those that have a strong, unpleasant odor.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
What are the primary health benefits of raw Pacific oysters?
Raw Pacific oysters are a nutritional powerhouse, exceptionally high in zinc for immune function and Vitamin B12 for nerve health. They also provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals like iron and selenium, which support metabolic health and reduce inflammation.
How many calories and how much protein are in Pacific oysters?
A 100g serving of raw Pacific oysters contains approximately 81 calories and 9.45g of high-quality protein. This makes them a lean, nutrient-dense protein source suitable for various dietary goals.
Are raw Pacific oysters keto-friendly?
Yes, they are generally considered keto-friendly. While they contain about 4.95g of carbohydrates per 100g—which is higher than most meats due to stored glycogen—they remain low enough in net carbs to fit into a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle.
Is it safe to eat Pacific oysters raw?
While many enjoy them raw, there is a risk of foodborne illness from bacteria like Vibrio. To minimize risk, ensure they are sourced from clean, regulated waters and kept strictly chilled; however, individuals with compromised immune systems or liver disease should only eat them fully cooked.
How do you tell if a raw oyster is fresh and safe to eat?
A fresh oyster should have a tightly closed shell; if it is open, it should snap shut immediately when tapped. It should smell like the fresh ocean or seaweed; any strong 'fishy' or ammonia-like odors indicate the oyster has spoiled.
What is the best way to store raw Pacific oysters at home?
Store live oysters in the refrigerator at 34-40°F (1-4°C) in an open container covered with a damp cloth to keep them moist. Never store them in an airtight bag or submerged in fresh water, as this will kill them.
How do you prepare and serve raw Pacific oysters?
Scrub the shells under cold water, then shuck them using an oyster knife to sever the adductor muscle. Serve them chilled on the half-shell over a bed of crushed ice with simple accompaniments like lemon wedges, mignonette sauce, or horseradish.
Can I freeze raw Pacific oysters?
You can freeze oysters, but their texture will change, making them unsuitable for raw consumption after thawing. If you freeze them, it is best to shuck them first and store them in their liquor; use the thawed oysters for cooked dishes like stews or chowders.
Are Pacific oysters high in cholesterol?
Oysters contain a moderate amount of cholesterol, but they are very low in saturated fat and high in omega-3s. For most people, the healthy fats and high mineral content outweigh the cholesterol concerns when eaten as part of a balanced diet.
What do raw Pacific oysters taste like?
Pacific oysters are known for a sweet, creamy flavor profile compared to other varieties. They typically have a briny start with a clean, often fruity or cucumber-like finish, depending on the specific waters where they were harvested.
