Storage & Handling
Proper storage is vital to preserve the safety and freshness of live shellfish. We recommend following these simple guidelines:
Upon Purchase:
- Ensure shells are closed. If a shell is open, tap it gently; if it closes, it is alive. Discard any mussels that remain open or have broken shells.
- Live mussels should smell like clean ocean air, with no sour or off-odors.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerate live mussels at 2-4°C. Do not freeze live mussels.
- Keep them alive by allowing them to breathe. Do not store in airtight containers or plastic bags. Keep them in their mesh bag covered with a damp cloth.
- Do not let them sit in melting ice water. Freshwater kills marine mussels. Use a colander to drain any water away from the crop.
- Properly stored, live mussels will keep fresh for 8-10 days from harvest.