The Crystal Coast is famous for its seafood, but we’re not just talking shrimp, crab and fresh fish. Kyle Frey and Phillip Lannon of Crystal Coast Oysters take us on a deep dive into the world of oysters! The duo is making waves across the United States and in local restaurants with their delicious oysters that are available year-round, thanks to the development of aquaculture.
Kyle Frey quit school and his job in Cary, North Carolina in 2017 to become an oyster farmer. He says the more information he learned about oysters, the more he fell in love with the job and the industry, which sparked a new passion. He moved to the Crystal Coast and started Crystal Coast Oysters, a year later his friend, and now business partner, Phillip Lannan joined him.
This year, Kyle and Phillip hope to bring more than a million oysters to market. Their oyster farm lease is on the Newport River, an area historically known for its wild oyster population, dating back to the Native Americans who used the area to harvest their own. Kyle explains that the river has great algae, a good food supply and provides a perfect mixture of fresh and saltwater. That environment creates a unique flavor that attracts interest from all over the country around their brand of oysters called Fat Bellies. Crystal Coast Oysters can be found in restaurants in Los Angeles, Miami, Charleston, Georgia, throughout North Carolina and of course, right here on the Crystal Coast at Catch 109 and Prime Bistro, both in Morehead City.
Kyle and Phillip gave us an up-close look at their farm and the process it takes to be successful in going from farm to table. They buy their oysters as seeds, and it takes 13-15 months for them to grow big enough to harvest. Throughout that growth period, Kyle and Phillip take trips back and forth from the farm to a machine that tumbles, sorts and washes the oysters.
Depending on the size, they’ll place the oysters into bottom cages or larger aperture hole bags and place them back into the Newport River until they are ready to harvest.
With oyster farming, there is no longer a need to harvest and eat oysters in the months that end in “r” as the saying goes. The aquaculture process bypasses the spawning cycle that happens in the summer months. Kyle and Phillip’s oysters are triploids, which means they do not reproduce but still feed selectively the same way native wild oysters do. The science of aquaculture combined with strict regulations on refrigeration lets people experience oysters year round whether they like them raw or steamed.
In addition to local and national restaurants, Crystal Coast Oysters can be delivered overnight right to your door or can be picked up at Kyle’s farm. To find out how to get your hands on some Fat Bellies check out their website at crystalcoastoysters.co. To see Kyle and Phillip in action, check out our YouTube video on Crystal Coast Oysters.
The story of Kyle Frey and Phillip Lannon's Crystal Coast Oysters is just one chapter in the rich and varied history of oyster cultivation in North Carolina. Their modern approach to oyster farming, rooted in the perfect conditions of the Newport River, builds upon a tradition that stretches back centuries. To truly appreciate the significance of their work and the oysters they produce, it's worth taking a deeper dive into the fascinating history and enduring importance of oysters along the North Carolina coast.
The Rich History of North Carolina Oysters
North Carolina's oyster heritage dates back centuries, deeply rooted in coastal culture and economy. Native American tribes harvested oysters long before European settlers arrived, leaving behind massive shell middens. As colonial settlements grew, oysters became crucial to the coastal economy, with the industry thriving in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
However, overharvesting, pollution, and habitat destruction led to a significant decline in oyster populations by the mid-20th century. This environmental change forced a shift in harvesting practices and sparked conservation efforts. Today, sustainable oyster harvesting combines traditional methods with innovative aquaculture techniques, aiming to balance economic needs with environmental conservation.
Exploring the Best North Carolina Oysters
The Crystal Coast of North Carolina is renowned for producing some of the finest oysters in the country. The region's unique blend of freshwater and saltwater creates ideal conditions for oyster growth, resulting in varieties prized for their briny flavor and plump, meaty texture.
Popular varieties include Bogue Sound Oysters, known for their balanced brininess and sweet finish; Core Sound Oysters, offering a more intense brine flavor; and Newport River Oysters, characterized by their mild brine and buttery texture. These oysters pair well with crisp white wines or light beers, and often need nothing more than a simple mignonette sauce or a squeeze of lemon to enhance their natural flavors.
The Nutritional Benefits of Oysters
North Carolina oysters aren't just delicious; they're also packed with nutrients that contribute to overall health and wellness. These briny bivalves are rich in lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamin B12, iron, and selenium.
Incorporating oysters into your diet can support heart and brain health, boost immune function, and provide essential minerals. However, it's important to note that while oysters are nutrient-dense, they should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and sourced from reputable suppliers to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Sustainable Oyster Farming Practices
Sustainable oyster farming is crucial for the long-term viability of North Carolina's shellfish industry and the health of coastal ecosystems. Local farmers employ methods such as off-bottom culture, regular water quality monitoring, and controlled harvesting to ensure their practices benefit both the environment and the economy.
These sustainable practices not only support the growth of healthy oysters but also contribute to the overall health of the marine ecosystem. Oysters act as natural water filters, with a single oyster capable of filtering up to 50 gallons of water per day. By promoting oyster growth, farmers are indirectly improving water quality and creating habitats for other marine species.
How to Support Local Oyster Farmers
There are several ways to support North Carolina's oyster farmers and contribute to the sustainability of the industry. Consider buying local oysters from seafood markets or dining at restaurants that source from local farms. Participate in oyster festivals to taste different varieties and meet local farmers. If you enjoy oysters at home, save the shells and return them to local recycling programs.
Educate yourself and others about sustainable seafood practices, and consider supporting or volunteering with organizations working to restore and protect North Carolina's coastal habitats. Some farms offer tours or tasting experiences, providing firsthand knowledge of farming practices and a deeper appreciation for the work involved.
Savoring the Flavors of the Crystal Coast
North Carolina oysters represent a unique intersection of history, culture, cuisine, and environmental stewardship. From their rich historical significance to their current role in sustainable aquaculture, these bivalves are an integral part of the Crystal Coast's identity. By choosing North Carolina oysters and supporting sustainable practices, we can help ensure these delicious and beneficial bivalves remain a part of the coastal landscape for generations to come. Next time you're on the Crystal Coast, take the opportunity to experience the unique flavors of local oysters and contribute to this vital part of North Carolina's coastal heritage and economy.
