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Shrimp, Lobster and More: What You Need to Know About Shellfish

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You may not realize it, but most of the seafood you eat is shellfish. The culinary world has a plethora of delicious shellfish dishes. Because of their versatility, many people assume that it’s safe to eat all types of shellfish. However, some species cause an increased risk for illness when consumed raw or undercooked.  Keep reading to learn more about what you need to know about shellfish and its consumption rules in NZ. What is a shellfish? Shellfish refer to a wide variety of aquatic animals that live in or around the ocean. Shellfish include oysters, mussels, clams, scallops, and common shrimp. These animals are filter feeders and produce a shell made of calcium carbonate as a means of protection. Because shellfish are a living filter for the ocean, they are an important part of the water filtration system. Shellfish fall under the category of aquatic invertebrates and are grouped with insects, crustaceans and other small arthropods. Shellfish include shrimp, prawns, crab, lobster
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The Truth About The Greenshell Mussels In NZ - Is They Native To Our Country?

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Greenshell mussels are a common sight in the harbors and estuaries of New Zealand. They are often found resting on rocks, docks, pilings, breakwaters, and other structures where they can find shelter from the elements. Though green shells do not pose any danger to humans, they do have an adverse effect on the ecosystem of New Zealand. The presence of these mollusks in our coastal waters poses a number of risks to our environment and economy.  This article will give you everything you need to know about the green shell mussel invasion in New Zealand. What Are Greenshell Mussels? Greenshell mussels are bivalve mollusks within the family Unionidae. Native to the Baltic Sea, the mussels were first spotted in New Zealand in the early 2000s. According to a report by the Department of Conservation, the mussels have now spread to at least three other Pacific countries. The species of green shell mussel is Unio spinous, which is also known as the Baltic green mussel or the ship’s backlog. The
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Location: New Zealand
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The Littleneck Clam: A Little Shell With A Big Personality

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The littleneck clam is a unique mollusk that lives in the shallow waters of southern New England. It has a small size and grows in only one location, but don’t let that fool you—this little mollusk packs a punch. The littleneck clam spends most of its life filter-feeding microscopic phytoplankton from the water. To find food, this mollusk tends to be more of an opportunist, hiding out under rocks or in caves until it senses prey nearby. If it does happen to come across something tasty like algae or zooplankton, that’s even better!  The littleneck clam will use every part of what it finds and store it away for later consumption. How Did the Littleneck Clam Get Its Name? Amazingly, it wasn’t until the mid-19th century that people started to call the clam the littleneck in reference to its shell. Back in the early 1600s, the American Indians of the area had a name for the clam—the “mash-a-muck.” The mash-a-muck name was likely given in reference to the clam’s small size and the fact that
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Location: New Zealand
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How to Find Out if New Zealand Mussels are Safe to Eat

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New Zealand mussels are a delicious and nutritious food, but they can also be dangerous. If you’re thinking of eating mussels, it’s important to know if they are safe before diving in. Fortunately, there are several ways to find out if the mussels you plan to eat are safe or not. New Zealand has an extensive shellfish industry and that means there is a lot of information about which species are safe for consumption. The key is knowing how to interpret that information.  This article will cover everything you need to know about whether or not New Zealand mussels are safe to eat. What are New Zealand Mussels? New Zealand mussels are freshwater mollusks that are closely related to truffles. They are best known for their taste, which is described as meaty with a mild yet distinct mushroom flavor. New Zealand mussels are dark purple, slimy, and velvety when cooked. New Zealand mussels are native to New Zealand and grow in freshwater lakes, rivers, and ocean estuaries. New Zealand mussels a
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Location: New Zealand
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What You Need To Know About Green Mussels, An Important Seafood Choice

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When choosing a seafood dish, many people will opt for a firm, white-fleshed fish, such as cod, haddock, or salmon.  However, there are many other great options for seafood, including green mussels. What are Green Mussels? Green mussels in New Zealand are a type of shellfish that are found in both fresh and salt water. They are usually brown but can be green in color. They have a smooth exterior and a firm interior. Green mussels have a meaty taste and are often used in dishes such as chowder or bisque. What are the Health Benefits of Green Mussels? A recent study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that green mussels are a good source of dietary antioxidant flavonoids. Antioxidants scavenge harmful byproducts of cellular metabolism and protect cells from damage caused by environmental stressors. The findings suggest that g New Zealand mussels   may help to maintain health and reduce the risk of disease. Aside from their antioxidant properties, green musse
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Location: New Zealand
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The Role Of Shellfish In Seafood Nutrition

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Shellfish are a type of seafood that contains a high amount of protein and minerals. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals. What are the Benefits of Eating Shellfish? Shellfish New Zealand is a type of seafood that includes everything from clams to oysters. They are high in vitamins and minerals, including selenium, which is important for thyroid health. They're also a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Some research suggests that shellfish may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. What Are the Disadvantages of Eating Shellfish? There are some potential disadvantages to eating shellfish. These include the risk of food poisoning, which can be caused by bacteria or parasites. Shellfish also contain high levels of cholesterol and fat. What Types of Shellfish are Good Sources of Protein in New Zealand? Shellfish are a good source of protein. They contain all nine essential amino acids, which is why they are a good choice for vegetarians and veg
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Location: New Zealand
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The Littleneck Clam: A Highly Specialized And Valuable Seafood

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Littleneck clams are a type of clam that is found in the North Atlantic Ocean and North Pacific Ocean. They are a popular fish meal and food source for humans. Here are some tips about Littleneck Clam A Highly Specialized And Valuable Seafood What are Littleneck Clams? Littleneck clams are a type of clam that is found in the eastern United States. They are known for their small size and their sweet, succulent taste. Littleneck clams can be eaten raw or cooked and are a common ingredient in seafood dishes. What are the benefits of eating Littleneck Clams? Littleneck clams are a high-quality seafood option that is sustainable and environmentally friendly. They are a source of protein and healthy fats. Additionally, they provide essential vitamins and minerals. Where are Littleneck Clams Found? The littleneck clams are found in the cold waters of the North Atlantic Ocean and Eastern Pacific Ocean. They are most commonly found in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. What is the V
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Location: New Zealand
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