What should be done if clams, mussels, or oysters open during cooking?

• A. They should be rejected.
• B. They should be served immediately if opened.
• C. They should be cooled rapidly and discarded.
• D. They should be rinsed and served.

Answer: (A)

Open shells indicate the shellfish has been heated through and is safe to eat, so you should remove them from heat and serve promptly. If shells remain closed after cooking, discard them because they may have been dead before cooking and could be unsafe. Rinsing and serving or discarding opened shells aren’t the appropriate actions for properly cooked shellfish.