Putting the squeeze on oysters kills potentially deadly bacteria and also
鈥渟hucks鈥 oysters from their shells, says Marilyn Kilgen, head of biological
sciences at Nicholls State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana. Working with a
local seafood processor, she subjected oysters to pressures of up to 345
megapascals. The aim was to kill bacteria by altering proteins in their cell
walls, but she was surprised to find the pressure also partially opened the
shells and loosened the oysters from their shells. She thinks the pressure
breaks down the protein glues binding oysters to their shells. Oysters are
normally shucked by sliding a knife inside the shell to cut the muscle. The
procedure does not affect the taste of oysters, says Kilgen.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Mind
THC in cannabis may reduce nightmares in people with PTSD
News
Environment
Fishers detonate a bomb every hour on one Indonesian coral reef
News
Environment
How bad is the UK drought and how long will it continue?
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles