How Many Oysters are in 3 Ounces? A Quick Reference Guide

Oysters are a beloved shellfish enjoyed by many for their briny flavor and impressive nutrition profile. Whether you’re planning to shuck some oysters at home or order a plate during happy hour, it’s helpful to know how many oysters make up a typical 3-ounce serving.

In this complete guide, we’ll provide key details on oyster sizes, typical counts per serving, nutrition facts, and tips for buying and storing these tasty bivalves.

What is Considered a Serving Size of Oysters?

A standard serving size of shucked oysters is about 3 ounces This is equal to

• 6 large oysters
• 12 medium oysters
• 18-24 small oysters

The larger the oyster, the fewer needed to make up 3 ounces Smaller oysters require more per serving.

A typical appetizer portion is often 6-12 oysters on the half shell. So 3 ounces provides a hearty individual serving

Nutrition Facts for 3 Ounces of Oysters

A 3-ounce serving of raw oysters contains:

• Calories: 69
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 2g
• Carbs: 4g
• Iron: 24% DV
• Zinc: 128% DV
• B12: 567% DV

Oysters are low in calories but high in nutrients like zinc, iron, selenium, B12, and copper. The mineral content is exceptionally impressive, making them one of the most nutritious protein sources.

Average Oyster Size and Counts

Oyster sizes are usually categorized as:

• Extra small
• Small
• Medium
• Large
• Extra large

Here are the approximate counts per 3 ounces for each size:

• Extra small – 24-30 oysters
• Small – 18-24 oysters
• Medium – 12 oysters
• Large – 6-9 oysters
• Extra large – 4-6 oysters

The smallest oysters require about 30 per 3-ounce serving, while the very largest may only need 4-6.

Oyster Counts for Specific Varieties

Counts per 3 ounces also vary by species. Here are estimates for some popular types:

• Kumamoto – 24-30 per 3 oz
• Malpeque – 12 per 3 oz
• Bluepoint – 12 per 3 oz
• Atlantic – 12 per 3 oz
• Pacific – 18-24 per 3 oz
• Olympia – 30-36 per 3 oz

Tiny Olympias and Kumamotos will be on the higher end, while Malpeques, Bluepoints and other larger species have lower counts per serving.

Purchasing Tips

When buying fresh oysters, look for:

• Tightly closed, unbroken shells
• Shells that feel heavy for their size
• Shellfish tags with harvest dates

Aim to eat oysters within 4 days of harvest for peak quality. Discard any that won’t close when tapped.

Well-handled farmed oysters are a safer choice than wild oysters from questionable sources.

Storing and Handling Oysters

To retain freshness:

• Keep live oysters cold at 35-40°F

• Store in a container covered with damp towels

• Don’t keep for more than 7 days before eating

• Refrigerate shucked oysters in their liquid

• Eat within 2 days of shucking

Proper handling prevents spoilage and foodborne illness.

Serving Suggestions

Raw oysters on the half shell make an elegant appetizer. Provide lemon and sauces for squeezing.

For main dishes, baked, roasted, steamed, or fried oysters are delicious. Add to seafood stews or pan roasts as well.

Allow at least 3 ounces per person, which provides 6-12 medium oysters depending on size.

Use raw for ceviche and oyster shooters. Freeze shucked meats for longer storage.

Oyster Alternatives

Clams, mussels, and scallops can often be swapped for oysters in recipes. Cooked shrimp or lobster meat also work in some dishes calling for oysters.

How Much Oyster Goodness is in 3 Ounces?

Now that you know approximately how many oysters make up a standard 3-ounce portion, you can better plan for recipes, appetizers, and meals.

A serving this size not only provides 8 grams of protein, but also over 100% of your daily needs for zinc, selenium, B12, and copper. That makes oysters one of the most nutrient-dense foods you can eat.

So now that you’re armed with all the details on counts per serving, go forth and enjoy these incredible mollusks! Whether you prefer them raw, roasted, baked, or fried, oysters offer unmatched briny flavor and nutrition.