Oysters: nutritional values, calories and protein in mussels
Some think of a slippery undertaking, others of pure pleasure. When it comes to oysters and their nutritional values, opinions are divided. One thing is certain: the “queens of shellfish” are often not exactly cheap. We reveal the health benefits of oysters and why they might be worth trying.
Storage time*
| BioFresh Meat & Dairy safe just above 0 °C with low humidity | 3 days |
| Fridge compartment 7 °C | 1 day |
| Freezer compartment -18 °C | 3 months |
The key points
- Low in calories and high in protein: contain only about 70–85 kcal per 100 g and provide around 9–10 g of high-quality protein.
- Rich in nutrients: they are packed full of zinc, iodine, vitamin B12 and omega-3.
- Freshness is crucial: live oysters can be recognised by the fact that the shell closes when exposed to water and when tapped – never eat mussels that are wide open!
- Correct storage: never store in fresh water or in airtight packaging.
Oysters contain this many calories and proteins
Oyster species belong to the Ostreidae family. The most important species is the Pacific (rock) oyster, followed by the European oyster in Europe. The latter is extremely rare and is traded at a correspondingly high price. Oysters are not all the same – that becomes clear from the wide range of prices: the reason for the price differences lies in the quality level.
Oysters are among the most nutritious types of seafood. With around 70 to 85 calories per 100 g, they are considered low in calories, making them an ideal treat for those watching their weight. At the same time, oysters are a great source of protein, with around 9 to 10 g of high-quality protein per 100 g. This means that oysters are not only delicious but also nutritious. They contain all essential amino acids and are highly bioavailable. So if you’re looking to enjoy a protein-rich but low-calorie diet, oysters and their nutritional values are an excellent choice – provided you choose a high-quality variety. As the pricing clearly shows: quality and nutrient density are also closely linked when it comes to oysters.
Oysters are so healthy, and here’s why
Oysters are considered a superfood for health due to their nutritional values. They are rich in zinc, iodine, vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acids – nutrients that strengthen the immune system, aid thyroid function and can have a positive effect on the heart and brain. The zinc they contain is particularly important for skin, nails and wound healing.
However, caution is always advised with shellfish such as oysters. Only eat oysters if you’re sure they are fresh and unspoiled. To do this, hold slightly open shells under running water and tap lightly on the shell – if it closes, the oyster is fresh. Shells that are wide open should never be eaten.
Since we usually eat live, raw oysters, proper storage is of utmost importance – otherwise, the shellfish will spoil quickly. Cool temperatures are particularly important here, and the cold chain must be maintained at all times. In the normal fridge compartment of your fridge, oysters can only be stored for one day. In the BioFresh Meat & Dairy safe of Liebherr appliances, however, they stay fresh for up to three days. Temperatures there are just above 0 °C and humidity is low – ideal for keeping fresh oysters alive and ready to eat. Avoid storing the oysters in a closed bag or can – the live oysters will suffocate. Storage in fresh water is also fatal.
If you don’t necessarily want to eat the shellfish raw, you can easily extend their shelf life by storing them in the freezer or buying them already preserved. However, frozen oysters must be cooked after defrosting and cannot be eaten raw. Enjoy oysters consciously and safely, taking advantage of their nutritional value.
*All specifications given are to be considered as guideline values, and depend in each case on the type of foodstuffs and on the proper storage without interruption of the cold chain from harvest/production through to the Liebherr appliance. Should food products have information about minimum shelf life, the date on the packaging always applies.
