a simple form of sustenance, punctuated by occasional periods in which they reached the status of delicacy. In Britain they shifted from stomach-filler to luxury food with the arrival of the Romans, largely disappeared from the diet after they left, before returning to favour sometime around the eight century. The era of oysters being a cheap commodity came to an end quite abruptly after oyster beds became exhausted due to overfishing and pollution.
BUYING
Oysters should be stored at a low temperature and smell briny-fresh. The shells should be clean, bright, tightly-closed and unbroken.
Size, shape and flavour vary considerably. The best from British waters are considered to be those from Fowey River, Colchester and Whitstable.
STORING
Unopened (live) oysters can be kept in the fridge, covered in wet kitchen towels, for two or three days - keep a check on them and discard any that open. Do not store in an airtight container, or under fresh water, as this will cause them to die.
Shucked oysters can be kept refrigerated in a sealed container for 2-3 days. They can also be frozen (previously frozen oysters are better for cooking than eating raw).