Seafood
raw eastern oyster.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeKosher
ALSO KNOWN AS
eastern oyster
SERVING
CALORIES
51
PROTEIN
5.7g
CARBS
2.7g
FAT
1.7g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories51kcal—
Protein5.7g11%
Carbohydrates2.7g1%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0.62g1%
Total fat1.7g2%
Saturated fat0.47g2%
Trans fat0.03g—
Cholesterol40mg13%
Water89g—
MINERALS
Sodium85mg4%
Potassium156mg3%
Calcium59mg5%
Iron4.6mg26%
Magnesium18mg4%
Phosphorus97mg8%
Zinc39.3mg357%
Copper2.9mg318%
Manganese0.30mg13%
Selenium19.7µg36%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A13µg1%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0µg0%
Vitamin E0.85mg6%
Vitamin K1.0µg1%
Thiamin (B1)0.02mg2%
Riboflavin (B2)0.09mg7%
Niacin (B3)0.93mg6%
Pantothenic acid (B5)0.22mg4%
Vitamin B60.03mg2%
Folate (B9)7.0µg2%
Vitamin B128.8µg365%
%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.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup248g
1 tablespoon15.5g
1 teaspoon5.2g
1 ml1g
1 liter1033.3g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Exceptionally high in zinc, which is crucial 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 (EPA and DHA), which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
- ✓Provides a significant amount of iron, which helps prevent anemia and supports energy metabolism.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1For raw consumption, shuck just before serving. Discard any oysters that are open and do not close when tapped, as they are likely dead. Serve on crushed ice with lemon or mignonette sauce.
- 2When cooking, use gentle methods like steaming, poaching, or grilling. Cook just until the edges curl and they become plump and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
- 3The natural liquid inside the shell, known as oyster liquor, is flavorful and briny. Reserve it to use in sauces, soups, or stews.
- 4Due to the risk of foodborne bacteria like Vibrio, it is safest to consume oysters fully cooked, especially for individuals who are pregnant, elderly, or have compromised immune systems.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store live, unshucked oysters in the refrigerator at 35-40°F (1.5-4.5°C) with the cup-side down, covered with a damp cloth. Do not store in a sealed container or water. They can last for 7-10 days.
- Shucked oysters should be kept in a covered container in their own liquor in the coldest part of the refrigerator and consumed within 2-3 days.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Are raw Eastern oysters healthy?
Yes, raw Eastern oysters are highly nutritious and low in calories. They are an exceptional source of zinc for immune health, vitamin B12 for nerve function, and omega-3 fatty acids which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
How many calories and how much protein are in raw Eastern oysters?
A 100g serving of raw Eastern oysters contains approximately 51 calories and 5.71g of protein. This makes them a very lean, nutrient-dense protein source suitable for many different diets.
Are raw Eastern oysters keto-friendly?
Yes, they are keto-friendly. With only 2.72g of carbohydrates per 100g, they can easily fit into a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle while providing essential minerals like iron and zinc.
Is it safe to eat raw oysters?
While many enjoy them raw, there is a risk of foodborne illness from bacteria like Vibrio. Individuals with liver disease, diabetes, or compromised immune systems should avoid raw shellfish and only consume oysters that have been thoroughly cooked.
What do raw Eastern oysters taste like?
Eastern oysters are known for their briny, salty flavor and a slightly sweet finish. They generally have a firmer, meatier texture compared to Pacific varieties, though the exact flavor profile depends on the water they were harvested from.
How do you store raw oysters at home?
Store live oysters in the refrigerator at 35-40°F (1-4°C) in an open container covered with a damp cloth to keep them moist. Never store them in an airtight container or submerged in fresh water, as this will kill them.
How can you tell if a raw oyster is fresh or spoiled?
A fresh, live oyster should have a tightly closed shell; if it is open, it should snap shut when tapped. Once shucked, the oyster should look plump and smell like the fresh ocean; discard any that have a strong 'fishy' or 'off' odor.
Are raw oysters gluten-free?
Naturally, raw oysters are 100% gluten-free. However, if you are eating them at a restaurant, ensure they haven't been cross-contaminated by crackers or breading used for fried seafood.
How do you prepare raw oysters for serving?
Scrub the shells thoroughly under cold running water to remove grit. Use a specialized shucking knife to pry open the shell at the hinge, cut the muscle attaching the meat to the shell, and serve immediately on a bed of crushed ice.
Why are oysters considered good for the immune system?
Oysters are one of the highest natural sources of zinc, a mineral crucial for DNA synthesis and wound healing. A single serving can provide several times the daily recommended intake of zinc, which helps the body fight off bacteria and viruses.
