Username: Password:   Mandate   Objectives   Environmental Policy   Oyster   Mussel   Finfish   R&D priorities   R&D Coordinator   R&D funding agencies   Species   Health & Nutrition   Benefits of Eating Finfish   Benefits of Eating Shellfish   Market Forms of Seafood   Grades of Oysters   Buying Fresh Seafood   Basic Cooking Methods   Recipes   Care & Storage of Seafood   Sources & References   Grades of PEI and Malpeque Oysters Grades and sizes are set down according to regulations by the Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans. They deal specifically with the physical size and shape of the oyster (ascetics), NOT with the flavour or meat quality. Fancy or Choice These are the top grade oyster (best looking shells) and ideal for serving on the half shell. They tend toward a rounded shell with a deeply cupped bottom shell. Standard Tending towards a longer irregular shell. The cup is not as deep as Fancy or Choice. This grade is excellent cooked, served with sauces or garnishes. These are good value with typical Malpeque (PEI) taste and high quality. Commercial These are uneven, flatter shells. Ideal for use where the shell is not part of the presentation. Usually a good buy for an oyster meat. Has the same taste and high quality of the other grades. As long as they are packed in their own juices or liquor they retain their natural flavour.