Zhuanghe Oysters

Zhuanghe Oysters

Zhuanghe Oysters are a geographical indication agricultural product.

　　 Zhuanghe’s signature oysters. Zhuanghe City is a major oyster-producing region, bordering the Yellow Sea and serving as one of the country’s important marine farming areas. Oysters, also known as raw oysters, are an economically farmed species. They can produce pearls and their meat is also edible. Roasted oyster signs are everywhere on the streets—these are the very oysters we’re talking about. Zhuanghe’s signature oysters are believed to have kidney-nourishing and beauty-enhancing benefits.

　　As one of the cities under Dalian’s jurisdiction, Zhuanghe is also a city rich in local specialties. In addition to oysters, it is nationally renowned as an apple-producing region. Thanks to its proximity to the sea, its marine aquaculture industry is highly developed, reaching a production level of 326,000 tons. The municipal government has invested $625,000 to develop shellfish farming by leveraging the advantages of the Yellow Sea’s shallow waters.

　　As a hometown of premium oysters, Zhuanghe, with its unique natural resources and convenient transportation, is set to become a shining coastal jewel in the Yellow Sea region.

　　Zhuanghe Oysters

　　Geographical Scope

　　Zhuanghe Oysters mainly refer to those that grow naturally or are cultivated in the waters of Zhuanghe City, Liaoning Province, in the northern part of China’s Yellow Sea, within the coordinates of 39°27′–39°45′ N latitude and 122°43′–123°30′ E longitude. Key production areas include Shicheng Island, Wangjia Island, Hei Island, and the Nanjian sea area. The marine environment where Zhuanghe Oysters thrive offers superior geographical conditions—climate, seabed quality, water quality, and food supply are all highly conducive to oyster reproduction and growth. The oyster farming area spans 150,000 mu, with an annual output of 150,000 tons and an annual output value of 300 million RMB.

　　Product Quality Characteristics

　　1. External Sensory Features: Zhuanghe Oysters have a wrinkled appearance, plump and smooth flesh, and relatively thick shells, typically around 6 cm in length. The shells are mostly light yellow or purplish-brown, irregular in shape, mostly elongated or triangular, with the left and right valves connected by a ligament and adductor muscle. The right valve is flatter with visible scales, while the left valve is more convex and slightly larger, attaching to the substrate. Oysters exhibit both hermaphroditic and dioecious reproductive systems, often undergoing sex change. They reach sexual maturity at one year of age and begin reproducing. 2. Internal Quality Indicators: Zhuanghe Oysters are known for their delicious taste and high nutritional value, containing various essential nutrients for the human body. These include: calcium 55–65 mg/100g, iron 10–15 mg/100g, zinc 1.2×10²–1.5×10² mg/kg, selenium 0.30–0.50 mg/kg, along with various vitamins and taurine.