Storing & Inspecting Your Shellfish

Storing your shellfish

Once you receive your shellfish, remove your fresh, live shellfish from the box.

  • Place shellfish in an open container to retain their natural juices.

  • Cover the shellfish with a damp towel.

  • Place in your refrigerator. DO NOT FREEZE.

  • If you place your shellfish in a cooler, put ice over them stay cool. DO NOT STORE WITH FRESH WATER.

inspecting your shellfish

When inspecting your shellfish, there are a few key characteristics to look for before enjoying them.  

Appearance:

Make sure that all of your shellfish is closed shut, meaning that the top and bottom of the shells are touching each other. If your shellfish are open, gently pitch them together. If your shellfish close on their own, they are alive and ready to be eaten.

Smell:

The smell of fresh shellfish can be a pleasant aroma for shellfish lovers to be in the presence of. Spoiled shellfish can be an unpleasant experience for anyone. Your shellfish should have a mild, faint scent that resembles the ocean. Shellfish that have gone bad can have a strong ammonia like smell. Please discard your shellfish.

After cooking: If any clams and/or mussels have not opened after cooking, do not eat. Please discard and do not force the shell open.