Shannon Knows Oysters

We are constantly inspired by the passion and deep knowledge of the people on our team, so we’re asking them to share their expertise on a specific subject. Shannon Yaeger is our chief oyster buyer and has a deep passion for these bivalves. We asked her a few questions about her corner of the Fortune universe.

Where do oysters grow? 

OK, this is a BIG topic. At the most basic level, oysters grow best in bays where the waters are calmer and more protected. These days, most oysters start out in a hatchery as seeds, because they are farm-raised in carefully controlled, ideal conditions for their growth.  
 

How do oysters get all those fun names? 

Traditionally, the names came from the areas they were harvested in. But nowadays, farmers usually come up with fun names to market their oysters and make them more unique.  Sometimes, even companies or restaurants will brand their own and come up with names and a fun story to go along. 

Are oysters a sustainable seafood choice? 
Yes! Oysters are a VERY sustainable food choice.  They do amazing things for the environment. 
 

How do oysters affect the water they live in? 
Oysters filter the water and improve water quality.  Oysters may be small, but each one can filter up to 50 gallons of water per day! 

How does the merroir affect oysters?   

Merroir is like terroir in wine, but it refers to the sea. Nothing affects the flavor of an oyster more than its habitat. The water temperature and salt content, the strength of the tides, and the phytoplankton that oysters eat all impact how an oyster tastes, looks, and feels.  

What is the most interesting thing about oysters? Tell us a “fun fact” about them. 

Oysters are a superfood! They are super healthy and high in protein, B12, zinc, Vitamin D, & iron.  

Are oysters really an aphrodisiac? 
So people say ... I highly encourage eating more oysters and giving it a test run. 

Where do you source most of the oysters at Fortune? 
We source most of our oysters from the East Coast, mainly from Canada down to Virginia. The majority get shipped to our warehouse in Chicago. The selection varies for each Fortune location depending on its demographic and customer needs.  

In the U.S., Eastern oysters, Crassostrea virginica, are the most popular.  
 

What is the latest oyster news at Fortune? 
Oyster varieties here at Fortune are always changing.  We like to mix it up and offer customers a wide variety to choose from.  We also run monthly promotions for our customers, offering a special discounted price on certain oysters.  Stay tuned for a super fun contest coming up that will really let customers have an opportunity to shine! 

How long have you been managing the oyster program at Fortune? 
I have been managing oysters in some capacity at Fortune for 18 years. 
 

How did you get involved with oysters in the first place? 

I became involved with oysters by accident, or maybe it was just good ol’ luck.   I was hired as a sales assistant nearly 20 years ago, but when the oyster buyer went on maternity leave, I stepped in, and it’s been all oysters for me ever since.  

What is your favorite way to eat oysters? 
My favorite way to eat oysters is to char-grill them and serve with all the fixings. I like to try different toppings, usually in a southern, NOLA-style.