Some people find that the inside of an oyster has turned black. This black substance is the oyster's metabolic waste, or it could be mud and sand. In this case, you should not eat it, but there's no need to throw it away. You can soak the oyster in salt water, and the black substance will be expelled.
I. Can the black stuff inside an oyster be eaten?
No, it cannot be eaten. That is the oyster's metabolic waste and mud and sand. It is recommended that you soak the oyster in salt water for 1-2 hours before eating to expel as much mud and sand as possible. When you pour out the salt water, you will see a lot of black stuff and mud, which is the black substance we are talking about.
II. How to clean oysters
Use chopsticks to prop the oysters up from the bottom of the basin. Because the oysters are always in the center of the water basin, the sand they spit out sinks directly to the bottom, and the water the oysters suspended in the middle inhale is clean.
When buying oysters, ask the shopkeeper for some sea salt, dissolve it in clear water to create a seawater-like environment. Then, place two chopsticks that you don't usually use in the basin; the purpose is to prevent the small basket from sinking. Finally, place the basket full of oysters on top to soak, and add a few drops of sesame oil. After 2-3 hours, you will see a lot of dirty stuff at the bottom of the basin.
III. Precautions for eating oysters
Do not eat with cold-natured foods.
Oysters are inherently cold-natured. It is best to avoid eating them with other cold-natured foods, such as water spinach, cucumbers, and other vegetables. You should also not drink chilled beverages like soda, ice water, or ice cream immediately after a meal. Also, be mindful to eat less or avoid cold-natured fruits like watermelon and pears to avoid physical discomfort.
Do not eat with beer or red wine.
Consuming oysters with large amounts of beer can produce excessive uric acid, which can trigger gout. Excess uric acid can deposit in the joints or soft tissues, leading to inflammation of the joints and soft tissues.