HWN Suggests

Should We Really Be Eating Raw Oysters?

In my eyes, all shellfish are magical. Maybe it’s because I grew up in the Midwest, where saltwater seafood is harder to come by, or maybe it’s just the mysterious makeup of these organisms (and the pearls you might find inside), or maybe it’s just because they taste so uniquely delicious. Oysters, mussels, clams, scallops—they’re all number one in my book. But why are oysters eaten raw, while the default preparation for all other shellfish seems to involve cooking them...

Well, it turns out we really shouldn’t be eating any of these critters raw.

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Featured

 Is Raw Fish Good for You?

Experts weigh in on if it's healthy and safe to eat sushi and other raw fish often.

 Why You Should Stop Eating Raw Oysters

Warming oceans are increasing the occurrence of the deadly Vibrio vulnificus bacteria in raw oysters.

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Are Oysters Good for You? What the Science Says

Many people enjoy oysters for their unique texture, subtle flavors, and even proclaim their aphrodisiac effects. Yet others worry that these filter feeders might be a source of toxins. This all leads to the question, are oysters good for you?

As Climate Changes, Is Eating Raw Oysters Getting Riskier?

Oysters have long been a trademark of southern cuisine, but they also pose health risks for some.

Eating Raw Fish: The Dangers

THE reported dangers of illness brought on by eating raw fish and meat often cause fear and confusion in the minds of those who enjoy such foods, either for their esthetic or nutritional benefits.

Myths, Busted! Debunking Common Oyster Myths

Avoid Oysters That Weren’t Harvested in Months with the Letter ‘R’. This may have been a good rule of thumb in the past, but as refrigeration has become more advanced, this myth is defunct. Warmer-than-average waters increase the likelihood of vibrio vulnificus, the bacteria that can cause people to get sick after eating oysters. But in line with FDA guidelines, Shuckin’ Shack’s suppliers begin cooling oysters as they’re harvested, so no matter if it’s July or December, oysters are safe to eat.

Raw Oyster Myths

Raw oysters contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus can be life threatening, even fatal when eaten by someone with liver disease, diabetes or a weakened immune system. However, there are myths that encourage people to eat raw oysters in spite of these dangers. Some of these myths, and the true facts behind them...

Sorry to Ruin Your Summer, but Raw Oysters Can Lead to Shit Attacks—And Worse

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Thai doctor fights against carcinogenic raw fish dish that killed his parents

Koi pla, raw fish ground with spices and lime, is thought to kill up to 20,000 people in Thailand every year.

The dangers of eating raw fish

Raw fish, such as sushi, and other uncooked seafood may be delicious, but they also may be dangerous – even life-threatening – if prepared inexpertly.

The Incredible Benefits of Raw Oysters

Throw out your viagra, and eat a few Oysters instead. "Superfood" is a term that is overused in the modern nutritional space. You may have been taught to associate this with Kale, Acai, and other rainbow-colored fruits & vegetables.

The Real Reason You Should Stop Eating Raw Oysters

Oysters are delicacies that have foodies raving around the world. They also happen to be packed with important nutrients like selenium, zinc, iron, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin D (via The Cleveland Clinic). But although there is a long culinary tradition of eating them raw and "on the half" shell, consumers might want to think twice before devouring this tasty bivalve mollusk without cooking first.

When (and Why) Is Raw Fish Safe to Eat?

Raw fish-based dishes, like sushi and ceviche, are quite popular. With home cooks becoming more adventurous and preparing these dishes in their own kitchens, it’s important to know the answer to the question: Is raw fish actually safe to eat? And if so, when?