how do you serve raw clams

However, for some people, eating raw or undercooked oysters or clams can cause serious illness or even death from Vibrio vulnificus.

Vibrio vulnificus is a bacterium that can cause severe illness or death in some people who eat raw oysters or clams.

Between 1989 and 1996, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 149 serious illnesses resulting in 75 deaths from Vibrio vulnificus infection.

Discard the top shell & run knife under the clam to release from bottom shell. Put a leaf of lettuce on the bottom of the dish & fill with ice. Place half a dozen clams on top of the ice. Serve with a wedge of lemon, tobasco sauce & cocktail sauce.
how do you serve raw clams

Where Is it Found?

Vibrio vulnificus is found naturally in coastal waters. Vibrio vulnificus is NOT a result of pollution, and can be found in waters approved for oyster and clam harvesting. Vibrio vulnificus does NOT change the appearance, taste, or odor of oysters or clams.

Research shows that Vibrio vulnificus is found in oysters and clams from warm waters, such as the Gulf of Mexico. During the warm weather months of April though October, amounts of bacteria found in shellfish are higher.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus include:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pains
  • Severe weakness
  • Skin rashes and blisters
  • Shaking chills
  • High fever

It is important to remember that in “high risk” individuals Vibrio vulnificus infection can lead to death within two days. If you have any of these symptoms, see your physician immediately for medical treatment.

How to open a clam – how to shuck a quahog – raw seafood

FAQ

Why do people eat clams raw?

In addition to having a more delicate flavor and texture than cooked shellfish, raw oysters and clams retain more nutrients than when they are cooked. However, recently, the media and others have warned consumers about the risks of eating raw shellfish.

Can you eat clams without cooking them?

Eating raw or undercooked seafood, especially clams, mollusks, oysters and scallops can be dangerous. Seafood such as these can harbor bacteria that are ingested from their habitat. Many times, their habitat is in areas of high water pollution from towns and cities.

Are clams better raw or cooked?

There are no health benefits from consuming raw shellfish. All of the nutrients present in the live mollusc are also present in the cooked product, and the best part is that the food is much safer to eat.

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