10 Best Canned Oysters: Reviews And Buying Guide

If you’re a fan of oysters but can’t always get your hands on fresh ones, canned oysters are the next best thing. They’re a great source of protein, iron, and vitamins, and they’re available in most grocery stores at affordable prices.

In this buying guide, we’ll be reviewing the 10 best canned oysters on the market, looking at their pros and cons, and offering tips on what to look for when buying canned oysters.

BrandProsCons
Crown Prince Natural Smoked OystersHigh in nutrients, sustainable, gluten-free, Kosher certified, Non-GMO certifiedPricey
Ekone Original Smoked OystersLow in fat, cholesterol, and calories, high in nutrients, sustainably farmed, long shelf lifeExpensive
Otter Kingdom Premium Smoked OystersHigh in protein and iron, ISO-certified, BPA-free packagingAbove average price
Bumble Bee Whole OystersHigh in protein, iron, and selenium, responsibly-managed fisheriesSmaller in size, tough texture
Reese Large Smoked OystersHigh in protein and iron, versatilePreserved in cottonseed oil
Geisha Fancy Smoked Oysters In Sunflower OilAffordable, high in nutrientsCalorie-dense, occasional shell fragments
Pampa Smoked OystersAffordable, high in ironMay contain shell fragments
Chicken Of The Sea Smoked OystersAffordable, sustainably farmed, gluten-free, Non-GMO certifiedContains some saturated fat
Roland Premium Smoked OystersLow in calories, sustainably wild-caughtLower iron content
Pacific Pearl Whole OystersAffordable, high in nutrientsMay contain fragments of shell

01 Crown Prince Natural Smoked Oysters In Pure Olive Oil

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Crown Prince Natural Smoked Oysters are a top pick for many, thanks to their high nutrient content and sustainable farming practices. These oysters are packed in olive oil, smoked over oak, and are free from unnecessary preservatives or additives. They’re also gluten-free, Kosher certified, and Non-GMO certified, making them a healthy choice.

Pros:

  • High in Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients
  • Low in sodium
  • Zero-trans fat, zero sugars
  • Hand-packed in pure olive oil
  • Smoked over oak for a natural flavor
  • Gluten-free
  • Kosher Certified
  • Non-GMO certified
  • No unnecessary preservatives

Cons:

  • Pricey

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02 Ekone Original Smoked Oysters

Ekone Original Smoked Oysters are sustainably farmed in the USA and are known for their large size and unique flavor. They’re low in fat, cholesterol, and calories, and high in nutrients. These oysters are smoked with maple for a unique flavor and have a shelf life of 4 years.

Pros:

  • Low in fat, cholesterol, and calories
  • High in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids
  • Large size with a slightly chewy texture
  • Sustainably farmed in the USA
  • Maple smoke
  • No preservatives
  • 4 years of shelf life

Cons:

  • Expensive 

03 Otter Kingdom Premium Smoked Oysters

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Otter Kingdom Premium Smoked Oysters are sourced from Korea and are hand-packed in pure olive oil. They’re high in protein, iron, and other nutrients, and don’t contain any sugar or trans fats. These oysters are also ISO-certified and come in BPA-free packaging, ensuring their safety and quality.

Pros:

  • Hand-packed in pure olive oil
  • Easy-open lids of 3-ounce cans
  • Clean oysters with no additives
  • Natural wood smoke for the best flavor
  • High in protein, iron, and other nutrients
  • No sugar or trans fats
  • ISO-certified
  • BPA-free packaging

Cons:

  • Above average price

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04 Bumble Bee Whole Oysters

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Bumble Bee Whole Oysters are sourced from responsibly-managed fisheries and are stored in brine, making them a healthier choice compared to those stored in oil. They’re high in protein, iron, and selenium, and don’t contain any added sugars or trans fats. However, they’re smaller in size and have a tougher texture compared to other brands.

Pros:

  • Stored in water
  • Whole oysters that can be served as an appetizer or main course
  • Sourced from responsibly-managed fisheries
  • Hand-shucked and properly graded
  • High in protein, iron, and selenium
  • No added sugars or trans fats
  • Very reasonable price

Cons:

  • Smaller in size
  • Tough texture
  • Less juicy

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05 Reese Large Smoked Oysters

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Reese Large Smoked Oysters are high in protein and iron and are smoked in cherry wood for a rich flavor. They’re versatile and can be used in various dishes. However, they’re preserved in cottonseed oil, which contains saturated fat.

Pros:

  • High in protein and iron
  • Easy to open cans for convenience
  • Cherry wood smoked for a deep flavor
  • Versatile for various dishes
  • Responsibly farmed for sustainability 

Cons:

  • Cottonseed oil contains saturated fat

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06 Geisha Fancy Smoked Oysters In Sunflower Oil

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Geisha Fancy Smoked Oysters are affordable and come in easy-open cans. They’re firm and plump, and are high in calcium, iron, potassium, and protein. However, they’re also calorie-dense and may contain occasional shell fragments.

Pros:

  • Easy-open 3.75-ounce cans
  • Affordable 
  • Firm and plump
  • Healthy

Cons:

  • Occasional shell fragments
  • Calorie-packed 

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07 Pampa Smoked Oysters

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Pampa Smoked Oysters are an affordable option packed in sunflower oil. They’re high in iron and don’t contain any sugars or trans fats. However, they may contain shell fragments.

Pros:

  • High in iron content
  • Very cheap
  •  No sugars or trans fats

Cons:

  • Shell fragments may be present

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08 Chicken Of The Sea Smoked Oysters

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Chicken Of The Sea Smoked Oysters are sustainably farmed and are 97% fat-free. They’re gluten-free and non-GMO certified, making them a healthy choice. However, they do contain some saturated fat.

Pros:

  • Low-priced for greater affordability
  • Sustainably farmed
  • Fresh taste
  • 97% fat-free
  • Gluten-free 
  • Non-GMO certified 

Cons:

  • Contains some saturated fat

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09 Roland Premium Smoked Oysters

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Roland Premium Smoked Oysters are sustainably wild-caught and are low in calories. They’re smoked with cherrywood for a mild flavor and are versatile. However, they have a lower iron content compared to other brands.

Pros:

  • Only 70 calories
  • Wild caught sustainably
  • Cherrywood smoke for a mild flavor
  • Versatile 
  • Medium-priced 

Cons:

  • Lower iron content compared to other brands

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10 Pacific Pearl Whole Oysters

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Pacific Pearl Whole Oysters are healthy and affordable. They’re high in nutrients and are stored in brine instead of oil. However, they may contain fragments of shell.

Pros:

  • Healthy at 150 calories per can
  • A high content of nutrients
  • Brine instead of oil 
  • Good value for money

Cons:

  • Fragments of shell may be present

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How To Choose The Best Canned Oysters?

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Things To Consider Before Buying Canned Oysters

When choosing canned oysters, consider their flavor, size, and texture, as well as their health quotient and quality. Look for oysters that have been hand-packed and hand-shucked, and those that are high in nutrients. Also, consider whether they’re suitable for any particular diet you may be following.

Are Canned Oysters Good For You?

Canned oysters are a great source of nutrition and are an excellent option for those looking for a quick bite. They provide healthy omega-3 fats and minerals, such as selenium and zinc, and vitamins B12 and D.

Do Canned Oysters Go Bad?

Do Canned Oysters Go Bad?
How Long Do Canned Oysters Last

Canned oysters should last for one year if kept in a dry and cool place away from direct light. However, do check the can for the expiry date. Some canned oysters even last 3 to 5 years if stored properly. To store leftover canned oysters, put them in a glass or food-grade plastic container and cover them with a lid. Stored like this, the canned oysters should remain edible for two days. It’s better not to refrigerate them in the can as the metal can react and affect the taste of the canned oysters. 

If you have leftover canned smoked oysters, you can freeze them. Empty the can and put the smoked oysters in a freezer bag or airtight container. These canned oysters will last for three months in the freezer.

FAQs

What Do Canned Oysters Taste Like?

Oysters that have been seasoned with smoke are delectable, and the type of smoke you used makes a huge difference. Fruit woods, like apple or cherry wood, give a warmer taste, while nut woods have stronger, sharper characteristics.

Are Canned Oysters Cooked?

Yes, canned oysters are either boiled or smoked.

Conclusion

In conclusion, canned oysters are a convenient and nutritious option for those who love this seafood. The best canned oysters are those that are sustainably sourced, high in nutrients, and free from unnecessary additives. Whether you prefer them smoked, boiled, or raw, there’s a canned oyster option out there for you.

Shucked Oysters: What You Need to Know

Shucking is the process of delicately opening up shells to reveal the fresh oyster meat inside. Shucked oysters are oysters that have gone through this process!

What Are Shucked Oysters?
What Are Shucked Oysters

However, we know you have more questions about this seafood. So, let’s get into the entire process of shucking and cooking oysters in this article!

How to Shuck Oysters

01 Choose Your Tool

You can use different tools to shuck food like oysters. Ideally, you should use an oyster knife, but you can also use a table knife or a flat-head screwdriver.

02 Prepare Your Workspace

Fill a bowl with ice water and submerge the oysters in them. Fill the second bowl with crushed ice and salt – this is where your fresh shucked oysters will go. The kitchen towel will hold the fresh shucked oysters.

03 Hold, Twist, and Pry

Hold the oyster knife into the hinge of the oyster. Once the knife tip is in place and wedged in between the oyster, twist and rotate to pop the shell. Pry and rotate the knife to fully separate the top shell from the bottom. Sever the muscle and free the oyster from the bottom shell.

How to Cook Oysters

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Cook Oysters

With fresh oysters shucked daily, there are a lot of recipes you can try. We discuss some of these recipes below:

Broiled Oysters

Melt butter, olive oil, and breadcrumbs over medium heat. Stir in oyster liquid. Place fresh shucked oysters in a baking sheet with rock salt and spoon breadcrumb mixture over each oyster. Broil on medium heat for five to six minutes until the color quality is golden brown.

Fried Oysters

Gather some paper towels on a plate and let the oysters dry. In a medium-sized bowl, beat eggs and let oysters rest in it for ten minutes. Combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, pepper, and salt in another medium bowl. Dip each oyster into the egg mixture and flour mixture and fry in oil until golden brown. Congrats, you’ve got fried oysters!

Oyster Stew

Make this seafood stew easily! Simply drain oysters – but reserve the freshly harvested oyster liquid. Melt butter on medium heat and add garlic and spices. Add milk, parsley, and oyster liquid. Add sweet, quality oysters until everything is cooked!

FAQs:

Are shucked oysters still alive?

Yes, shucked oysters are still alive.

How long after an oyster is shucked can you eat it?

It’s best to eat a shucked oyster fresh or immediately after being shucked. However, upon receiving shucked oysters, the freshness can last ten to fourteen days.

Can you eat shucked oysters raw?

If the oysters are shucked daily by yourself, yes, you can eat them raw as you’re assured of their freshness. If you’re eating fresh pre-shucked oysters, you may be more susceptible to certain ailments. Be careful with canned oysters!