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
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Store in a container covered with damp towels
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Don’t keep for more than 7 days before eating
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Refrigerate shucked oysters in their liquid
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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.
Are Oysters Good For You? – Dr. Berg
FAQ
How much is 3 ounces of oyster?
How many oysters is 4oz?
How many ounces are in an oyster?
How much do 6 oysters weigh?
How many ounces of oysters are in a serving?
Oysters are one of the few species that are eaten both raw and cooked. Three ounces of raw oysters, which is about two medium oysters or three small oysters, is equal to a single serving. Three ounces of raw oysters contain: Calories: 69 Total fat: 2 g Cholesterol: 42.5 mg Sodium: 90.1 mg Total carbs: 4.2 g Dietary fiber: 0 g
How many calories are in 3 ounces of raw oysters?
Three ounces of raw oysters contain: Calories: 69 Total fat: 2 g Cholesterol: 42.5 mg Sodium: 90.1 mg Total carbs: 4.2 g Dietary fiber: 0 g Sugar: 0 g Protein: 8 g Wondering about how many calories raw oysters contain during happy hour?
How many carbs are in a 3 ounce serving of oysters?
There are very few carbohydrates in oysters with just over 4 grams in a 3-ounce serving. There is less fat in oysters than carbohydrates, with just 2 grams per 3 ounces. Oysters are packed with protein. A 3-ounce serving of oysters provides 8 grams of protein and all of the essential amino acids.
How many calories are in a serving of oysters?
Oysters are packed with protein. A 3-ounce serving of oysters provides 8 grams of protein and all of the essential amino acids. Despite being low in calories, oysters are high in vitamins and minerals. Oysters are a good source of zinc, selenium, copper, iron, and vitamin B12. One serving of oysters (about 3 ounces) provides 69 calories.