Gulf Coast oyster processors have taken strides in post-harvest technologies to ensure safer alternatives to traditional raw oysters. One example is Crystal Seas Oysters’ Crystal Clear Oysters, which are live, in-shell oysters that have been irradiated and tested to ensure safe, high-quality, reef-fresh flavor all-year long. Mississippi Gulf Oysters have always been prized for their plump rich meat and subtle flavors of the sea, but with Crystal Seas Oysters’ irradiation process, consumers can feel even better about enjoying this quality tested shellfish.
Crystal Clear Oysters are unique because they have been irradiated to reduce Vibrio, a naturally occurring bacteria that can cause severe illness, to non-detectable levels. During the summer months, shellfish safety can sometimes be questionable when a high concentration of the dangerous Vibrio bacteria is present. This is no longer a concern with the Crystal Seas Oysters’ irradiation system, which also prolongs shelf life and allows oysters to remain cold throughout the irradiation process. To do this, Crystal Seas Oysters uses a $5 million food irradiation facility located at the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport. Crystal Clear Oysters are one-of-a-kind because they are still alive after the process, so they can be served raw on the half shell.
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