Fact or Fiction – 5 oyster myths demystified
The oyster has been a part of the human diet for centuries, with oysters being found in oyster beds and shorelines all around the world. The oyster is also an important food source to many marine animals and birds, as well as a much-loved food enjoyed by people worldwide. They are also one of the most misunderstood bivalves in the ocean, with many myths about them floating around that have been passed down over generations. In this blog post, we will take a look at five oyster myths and determine if they are FACT or FICTION!
1) All oyster varieties taste the same: FICTION
One of the most common misconceptions is that all oysters taste the same no matter where they are from. This simply isn't true and there are many different varieties with unique flavors that get their rich taste, shape and texture from their environment. Similar to how wine owes many of its flavor nuances to terroir, oysters owe their flavor to meroir, a play on terroir, with the French for “terre” (land) being replaced with “mer” (sea). Since oysters filter water through their gills, they absorb different levels of salt and nutrients from the sea. At Sanctuary Oysters, we harvest our oysters in the El Vizcaino Biosphere Reserve, where they are nourished in the idyllic water of the Pacific Ocean, feasting on a diet rich in phytoplankton, algae and sea grass, giving them their delicious, robust flavor and resulting in bigger, deeper cups.
2) Oysters have an aphrodisiac effect: FICTION
This myth has been around for centuries with mention of them being used for this purpose dating back to the Roman Empire. While oysters are a delectable dish to enjoy with your loved one for a plethora of different occasions, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that oysters have an aphrodisiac effect. The belief that they do likely comes from years of storytelling and as a result of their high zinc content, as zinc is necessary for the production of testosterone. However, there are many other foods that are high in zinc and don't have the same illustrious reputation as oysters. Even if the effect is merely placebo, we suggest if you find them a delectable addition to your date night menu there is no harm in shelfing this belief.
3) Oysters should only be eaten in months without "R"s: FICTION
While it is true that oysters are seasonal and their availability will vary between months, you can very much eat them in many of those “R” months”. In fact, Oysters are at their best in the winter. With cooler water temperatures and waves of nutritious phytoplankton, winter is the prime time for oysters. These conditions cultivate nutritious, flavorful, full-bodied oysters that everyone can enjoy. That's why at Sanctuary Oysters, we take a break around September through mid-October and let our oysters go on vacation.
4.) Oysters are not very nutritious: FICTION
Not only are oysters delicious to eat, but they are great for your health. Our Pacific Oysters are a rich source of Vitamin D, Copper, Zinc, Manganese, Selenium, Iron and Vitamin B12. Zinc plays a vital role in your immune system health, metabolism and cell growth. Oysters are also high in protein. With one oyster containing up to 2g of protein depending on size.
5.) Oysters pair best with champagne: FACT and FICTION
A bubbly Champagne or akin sparkling white is a classic pairing, but by no means the only libation worth pairing with oysters. We also love pairing our oysters with craft beer such as India Pale or Lager for a balanced and satisfying experience. We also love a nice still white wine such as Sancerre or Pino Grigio to deliver a dry, acidic edge and enhance an oyster’s full flavor. Lastly, citrus based drinks such as margaritas perfectly complement the delicate flavor of oysters.
Now that we have got our facts straight, are you ready to learn more about Sanctuary Oysters? Send us an email please at info@solazul.com.mx.