We've met a lot of great people who have asked some really great questions....here are your answers!
What makes your oysters different from everyone else's?
Our oysters are different because of the way they're raised. While most farms simply bottom plant and harvest, we put our oysters through a process called tumbling. This is what gives our oysters their unique shape and deep cup giving the consumer the best bite for their buck!
Where do your oysters come from?
Our oysters come from Long Island on the ferry every May. When they arrive they are as small as 2-3mm, although we also source them a bit larger to diversify our crop. We expect to order 2 million this year!
Do you ever find pearls in your oysters?
Unfortunately we have never found a pearl in our oysters, although it isn't impossible. All mollusks are capable of producing pearls in the wild, but the odds of finding one are pretty low.
What do oysters do?
Oysters don't swim like scallops, burrow like clams, or attach themselves to objects like mussels, but that doesn't mean they're not busy all day. An adult oyster can filter up to 1.3 gallons of water per hour, and 30 gallons per day. That's up to 210 gallons per week!
How long does it take to raise the oysters from seed to market?
Like any product of agriculture, or aquaculture in our case, the growth rates depend on environmental conditions. The average amount of time is 18-24 months. The oysters spend the first 4-6 weeks of life in our upweller, and the next 3-4 months in bags either in cages or on the bottom. Once they reach 2 inches and have a hard enough shell to protect them from blue crabs, they are planted on the bottom. Throughout the entire process they are handled and processed by us so that we can monitor their health and control their shape.
Where can we buy your oysters?
Our oysters are sold at the incredible S&P Oyster House in Mystic. Chef Edgar and his staff take great care in preparing fresh, local seafood. Just ask for the Stonington Farms oysters! You can also order by texting Beth at 860-857-2889, and we will harvest and pack your order on the day of pick up. Additionally, our website will be set up to take orders for oysters and merchandise soon!
Can we see the farm?
Yes! We love sharing the oystering process with our customers. We are at the Noank Aquaculture cooperative every Saturday during the warmer months and most Saturdays in the winter. Feel free to stop by and say hello!
What if I don't like raw seafood or can't eat it?
Not a problem! While hardcore enthusiasts prefer their oysters raw, there are many ways to prepare oysters. Oysters are delicious broiled with garlic, butter, parsley and parmesan cheese. One of our favorites is crispy fried oysters with tarter sauce or creamy horse radish. They are sweeter and more tender than fried clams and great to snack on with a cold beer. Rumor has it that the fourth First Lady of the United States, Dolley Madison loved oyster ice cream....I think I'll pass on that one!