Yes, they are. When you order our fresh Maine oysters for delivery, you’re receiving a live product, just as you would at a raw bar. That’s what preserves their clean, briny flavor and makes them worth opening in the first place.
Why oysters are shipped alive
Oysters are best enjoyed fresh from the shell, and the only way to maintain that quality is to keep them alive until you’re ready to shuck. They’re naturally suited for this. In the wild, oysters regularly spend time out of the water with the tides, closing their shells to hold in moisture and protect themselves. Shipping simply mirrors those conditions in a controlled way.
From harvest to delivery, oysters are kept cold and carefully packed so they stay stable during transit. The cold slows them down, putting them into a resting state. They’re not frozen or stressed. Your oysters are simply quiet and preserved, which allows them to travel well and arrive in strong condition.
What to expect when your oysters arrive
When you open your box, the oysters may not look “alive” in any obvious way, and that’s completely normal. You’ll see shells that are closed or slightly open, a clean ocean scent, and oysters that feel full and solid in your hand. They’re doing exactly what they’re supposed to do.
After you shuck your oyster, you’ll notice a clear, briny liquid—this is called the oyster’s liquor. It’s a mix of seawater and the oyster’s natural juices, and it’s a key part of the flavor. That fresh, salty taste comes directly from it.
Once they’re in your fridge, they’ll hold in that same state until you’re ready to enjoy them. There’s no extra handling required—just keep them cold and plan to open them within 7-10 days.
At the end of the day, oysters are meant to be simple. They arrive alive so that when you open one, you’re getting it at its best. Enjoy the brine.
