{"id":18655,"date":"2023-09-27T15:07:05","date_gmt":"2023-09-27T19:07:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ncseagrant.ncsu.edu\/?page_id=18655"},"modified":"2023-12-15T12:20:50","modified_gmt":"2023-12-15T17:20:50","slug":"safely-selecting-and-consuming-shellfish-faqs","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/ncseagrant.ncsu.edu\/safely-selecting-and-consuming-shellfish-faqs\/","title":{"rendered":"Safely Selecting and Consuming Shellfish: FAQs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n
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Is it OK to eat raw shellfish?<\/h2><\/a>
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Eating clams and oysters raw or partially undercooked can be unsafe, especially for people who have difficulty fighting infections because their immune systems have been weakened by chronic diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Shellfish feed on nutrients and microorganisms that are naturally present in their aquatic habitats. Though harmless to clams and oysters, some bacteria and viruses can sicken people who eat infected shellfish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vibrios are microorganisms that are naturally present in the brackish saltwater that shellfish thrive in. Once consumed, these bacteria grow in shellfish even when they are stored under refrigeration. People who eat raw or undercooked shellfish that contain Vibrios can experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and fever. Vibrio infections can be lethal for some people depending on their underlying medical conditions. Consumers who are unsure of their risk level for consuming raw or undercooked shellfish should first contact their doctor.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Who is at risk for shellfish-borne illnesses?<\/h2><\/a>
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People with liver disease from excessive alcohol intake, viral hepatitis or cirrhosis, are at risk. Those with gastrointestinal problems, such as low stomach acid, also are at risk. Other medical problems that can make people vulnerable to shellfish-borne infections include diabetes and chronic kidney or heart disease. (Source: Mariner\u2019s Menu: 30 Years of Fresh Seafood Ideas<\/em><\/a>).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Where should I buy live shellfish?<\/h2><\/a>
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Always buy live clams, mussels and oysters from a commercial source such as a seafood market, grocery store, or other retail establishment. If you are unsure of the status of a potential source, contact the Shellfish Sanitation and Recreational Water Quality Office with the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries at 1-252-726-6827.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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How can I judge the quality of live shellfish?<\/h2><\/a>
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Look for:<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n