Discover the Health Benefits and Versatility of Live Scallops

by Oleg Nikitenko January 26, 2025

Benefits of Eating Live Scallops

Live scallops are an indulgent seafood delicacy that goes beyond their sweet, tender taste to offer a wealth of nutritional benefits. Often served raw and fresh in their shells, live scallops are celebrated for their natural flavor and their ability to retain essential nutrients that cooking may diminish.

In this article, we’ll dive into the health benefits, preparation tips, and safety considerations of eating live scallops, while also guiding you on where to source the freshest seafood, including premium scallops and oysters.

What Are Live Scallops?

Live scallops refer to scallops that are served raw and fresh, typically still in their shells. Unlike cooked scallops, which lose some nutrients during the cooking process, live scallops preserve their full nutritional profile. Their natural sweetness, delicate texture, and nutrient-rich composition make them a favorite among seafood lovers.

For top-quality live scallops and other premium seafood, visit Global Seafoods , offering an array of options such as Jumbo Sea Scallops and Hokkaido Scallops .

Nutritional Benefits of Live Scallops

Eating live scallops offers an array of health benefits that make them a highly nutritious addition to your diet.

High in Protein

Scallops are an excellent source of lean protein, delivering up to 20 grams per 100 grams of meat. This protein is essential for:

Building and repairing muscles.
Boosting energy and metabolism.
Supporting immune function.

Rich in Vitamins and Minerals

Live scallops are a nutritional powerhouse packed with essential nutrients, including:

Vitamin B12: Vital for brain function and red blood cell production.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that promotes skin health and protects cells.
Zinc, Magnesium, and Phosphorus: Important for strong bones, muscle function, and overall health.

Low in Calories and Fat

With only 70 calories per 100 grams, live scallops are a satisfying yet low-calorie food. They are naturally low in fat and carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-fat or low-carb diets.

Heart-Healthy Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Live scallops are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which:

Reduce inflammation.
Improve heart health by lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Support brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Naturally Low in Mercury

Scallops have a low mercury content compared to other seafood, making them a safe and healthy option for regular consumption.

How to Enjoy Live Scallops

The versatility of live scallops means they can be served in numerous ways, highlighting their natural sweetness and tender texture.

Preparing Live Scallops

Shuck Carefully: Use a scallop knife to pry open the shell, gently detaching the meat.
Clean Thoroughly: Rinse the scallop meat under cold water to remove any debris or sand.
Serve Fresh: For the best experience, consume live scallops immediately after preparation.

Serving Suggestions

Raw: Serve live scallops sashimi-style with a drizzle of soy sauce, lemon juice, or a touch of wasabi.
Ceviche: Marinate scallops in fresh citrus juice with chopped onions, cilantro, and jalapeños for a bright and zesty dish.
Garnished: Top scallops with microgreens, roe, or flavored oils for an elegant presentation.

For creative seafood recipes and step-by-step tutorials, check out the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel .

Pairing Live Scallops with Oysters

For a truly indulgent seafood platter, pair live scallops with fresh oysters. Both are delicacies that highlight the ocean’s finest offerings. Explore options like:

Miyagi Oysters : Known for their creamy, slightly briny flavor.
Cliff Point Petite Oysters : Perfectly petite and full of sweet flavor.
Willapa Bay Oysters : A favorite for their balance of sweetness and salinity.

For a complete collection of premium oysters, visit Global Seafoods’ Oysters Section to find options like Tidepoint Oysters or Carbajal Oysters .

Safety Tips for Eating Live Scallops

While live scallops are a healthy and delicious option, proper storage and handling are essential to ensure safety.

Key Safety Considerations

Buy Fresh: Purchase live scallops from reputable suppliers like Global Seafoods to ensure freshness and quality.
Store Properly: Keep live scallops in the refrigerator at 32–38°F and consume them within 24 hours.
Inspect Before Eating: Ensure scallops are moist, plump, and free of any strong or unpleasant odors.

FAQs About Live Scallops

Are live scallops safe to eat raw?

Yes, live scallops can be safely enjoyed raw as long as they are fresh and properly cleaned.

How do I store live scallops?

Store live scallops in the refrigerator, covered with a damp cloth. Consume them within 24 hours of purchase for optimal freshness.

Are live scallops healthy?

Absolutely! Live scallops are low in calories and fat, rich in lean protein, and packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Can live scallops be paired with oysters?

Yes, live scallops pair wonderfully with oysters. Consider options like Maine Oysters or Hokkaido Scallops for an exquisite seafood platter.

Where can I buy premium live scallops and oysters?

You can find the freshest scallops and oysters at Global Seafoods , offering a wide range of premium seafood products.

Conclusion

Live scallops are a culinary delight that combines rich flavor with exceptional health benefits. Packed with lean protein, essential vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids, they are a nutritious addition to any diet. Their versatility allows them to shine as the star of a dish or as part of a seafood platter alongside premium oysters.

For the freshest live scallops and oysters, explore Global Seafoods . From Jumbo Sea Scallops to Miyagi Oysters , you’ll find everything you need to create an unforgettable seafood experience.

For additional recipes, inspiration, and cooking tutorials, visit the Global Seafoods YouTube Channel and elevate your seafood game today!