Maryland Oysters Guide.pdf

Oysters from Chesapeake Bay and tributary rivers are plump, delicate, and briny, with varying flavors depending on the area.
To buy, visit a Maryland restaurant or purchase from groceries and seafood markets, either live in the shell or shucked into jars.
When buying live, look for:
+ Fresh smell
+ Tightly closed or quickly closing shells
+ No broken shells
+ Heavy for their size
Wild caught oysters have larger, thicker shells, while aquafarmed oysters have smaller, smoother shells.
Store live oysters:
+ Cool and refrigerated
+ On ice, not in ice
+ Covered with a damp towel
+ Cupped side down to reduce moisture loss
When buying shucked oysters in jars, check the label for:
+ Size designations: Standard, Select, Extra Select, Count
+ Use-by or sell-by date
* Be aware of the risk of consuming raw oysters, especially for those with chronic illnesses or immune disorders, and consider cooking oysters fully if unsure.