Think you’re an expert on oysters? Let’s test your knowledge with these facts about oysters. For instance, did you know that shellfish are high in minerals, lean protein, and healthy fats? According to Healthline, oysters provide immune-boosting and weight loss benefits when eaten regularly, plus they promote brain and heart health too.

On the other hand, shellfish can be a common food allergen, and some can contain contaminants and heavy metals — although this is rare.

Health Benefits

Oysters are naturally low in calories, and they are good sources of lean proteins, micronutrients, and healthy fats. Most of their fat contains omega-3 fatty acids that can boost heart and brain health. 

Shellfish are rich in iron, as well as magnesium, vitamin B12, and zinc. Interestingly, having just three ounces of oysters will provide you with almost 100% of your Daily Value for zinc.

Studies reveal that consuming omega-3 fatty acids from shellfish such as oysters will lower your heart disease risk due to their anti-inflammatory effects. Another study says B vitamins can slow down brain problem progression in people with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. If you eat oysters regularly, you won’t get sick as often thanks to the zinc content which boosts immunity and hastens healing.

Background on Oysters

Oysters, classified as hermaphroditic bivalves, spawn with drastic water temperature fluctuations. This typically occurs in summer out in the wild. They can be either females or males, with their current gender depending on their environment or life stage they are in. After spawning, both the sperm and the eggs are then released into the water and fertilized. Amazingly, adult females have been known to release between five and eight million eggs at once.

After fertilization takes place, the larvae (called “spat”) float around in the water until attaching to a suitable resting spot, where they will feed and grow until they create their hard shells. This shell protects them from the harsh marine environment.

Ways to Eat an Oyster

If you love to eat oysters, you know there are several ways you can enjoy them, such as:

• Fresh: Shuck fresh, live oysters and suck them down on the half shell with lemon juice, cocktail sauce, or horseradish. Loosen the top flat side of the oyster with a knife, add your condiment, and tilt it into your mouth – oyster and juices together.
• Stewed: Oyster stew is a hearty dish perfect for winter, made up of oysters cooked with milk, sherry, cream, and aromatics. Top with oyster crackers and enjoy.
• Fried: Try some fried oyster sandwiches or po’boys by shucking them and breading them, then tossing them into the deep fryer. Serve on a baguette with hot sauce, remoulade, and pickled slaw.
• Steam: Steam fresh oysters for about three to five minutes, which will open the shells. Eat plain or with butter or sauce, or lay them on a bed of cooked linguini.
• Broiled: Oysters Rockefeller can be topped with herbs, butter, and breadcrumbs, which are then baked or broiled briefly.
  

Now….go impress your friends!