How Seasons Shape Oyster Flavor

Kristen Cockrell

Oyster flavor changes with the seasons due to shifts in water temperature, salinity, and algae availability. These factors influence their taste, texture, and growth. For example: Winter (October–March): Oysters like Blackberry® Reserve are sweeter and...

Virginia Oyster Farming: Seasonal Sustainability Tips

Kristen Cockrell

Virginia leads the East Coast in oyster farming, producing over 40 million oysters annually. This industry not only supports local economies but also helps improve water quality, as each oyster filters up to 50 gallons...

Checklist for Buying Fresh Oysters

Kristen Cockrell

When buying oysters, ensuring quality and safety is critical. Use this checklist to confidently select oysters that are flavorful, safe, and worth your money: Inspect the Shells: Choose oysters with tightly closed, intact shells. Slightly...

Cold Chain Basics for Oyster Farming

Kristen Cockrell

In oyster farming, keeping oysters at the right temperature is essential for freshness and safety. Here's a quick breakdown of how cold chain management works from harvest to delivery: Harvest Cooling: Oysters are chilled immediately...

Essential Guide to Virginia Oyster Varieties

Kristen Cockrell

Virginia oysters are famous for their unique flavors, shaped by the waters they grow in - called "merroir." The state produces over 40 million oysters annually, offering a wide range of taste profiles from salty...

How to Check Oyster Meat Quality at Home

Kristen Cockrell

Inspect the Shell Look for tightly closed, clean, and undamaged shells. Tap slightly open shells - if they don’t close, discard them. Check the Liquid Fresh oysters have clear, salty liquid. Cloudy, murky, or no...