"Sometimes all you need is a really good oyster and a responsible amount of champagne"

I heard people consider the oyster as a symbol of high-end luxury, but oysters were often given away as free bar appetisers. Because I am a big fan of fresh oyster, I wonder why and what led oyster status as a luxury food?

In Australia, oysters are eaten and are very well-liked by seafood lovers like me. Sydney Rock Oysters and Pacific Oysters are just a few of the many oyster kinds that may be found in Australia. These oysters are grown in several parts of Australia, including New South Wales, South Australia, and Tasmania.

Oysters can be prepared in a variety of ways and are commonly eaten raw or cooked. I personally love to eat it raw on the half-shell, served with a squeeze of lemon juice or mignonette sauce. But you also will see it in cooked form such as mornay, stew or fritter.

Before we get into why oyster is not cheap.

Do you know that oysters can change their gender? you probably don't believe me but yes, oysters are animals that begin life as men before changing into female later in life. Depending on the surrounding environment and the availability of reproductive partners, they have the capacity to change their gender. They can increase their chances of having a successful reproduction by way of this special trait. Oysters are also important specie for maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems because they have the capacity to filter up to 50 gallons of water every day.By removing extra nutrients, sediment, and toxins during feeding, they help to improve the purity and quality of the water. Other organisms profit from cleaner water, which also encourages the growth of seagrass and other underwater plants.

The oyster industry has grown significantly due to consumer high demand. Then why oyster still expensive? Shall we find out?

There is a limited quantity of oysters since they are a natural resource and are dependent on a number of variables, including water quality, the environment, and the seasons. Specific criteria must be met for oyster production, and not all coastal sites are suitable. Price increases may occur when there is a shortage and there is a significant demand.

Oysters are frequently regarded as a special and are connected to premium seafood. Oyster varieties with unique flavour, textures, or regional exclusivity can sell for greater prices since they are rare or highly desired species.

Oyster farming is a labour-intensive procedure that takes a lot of time, effort, and knowledge. Oysters have a growth cycle that can last several years, during which time oyster farmers must raise and care for the oysters. The greater price is a result of the labour and material costs associated with farming and harvesting processes.

To protect the marine eco-system and ensure the long-term health of oyster populations, oyster farming is dependent on environmental rules and sustainability practises. The use of sustainable methods of farming and respect to these laws may raise production costs, which may result in higher oyster prices.

Oysters must be handled with care and transported using special tools since they are sensitive and perishable. The total price may be affected by the expense of shipping, storing, and making sure the oysters are in excellent condition when they are sold.

Oyster costs can vary depending on the type of oyster, region, market demand, and the specific supplier or restaurant. The price of oysters can also be affected by regional availability and market variations. Oyster price in Sydney supermarket is around $21 per dozen. Plus, oysters only have a nine-day shelf life, and because of their popularity and reputation as a luxury food, demand for them is only going to grow.

Should I leave 1 oyster alive and keep it in a fish tank? Is it going to work? I have to laugh with my silly idea, of course it won't work. Hope you enjoy reading this article and see you next time.