Skip to main content
Tourism PEI
Clam Digging Keppoch

How to Purge (clean) Live Clams of Sand

How to Purge (clean) Live Clams of Sand

Published July 30, 2021 | Tourism PEI
Categories: Culinary

Mussels and oysters live on the ocean bottom and tend to accumulate less sand than clams. Both hard shell clams and soft shell clams live buried in the substrate, but soft shell clams cannot close their shells tightly, therefore, are more susceptible to sand accumulation.

When placed in clean sea water, any of these shellfish will purge themselves of sand. Place shellfish in a container of cool sea water or a solution of 1/3 cup salt to 1 gallon cool tap water. The water should adequately cover the shellfish.

Leave for 30 minutes and then repeat 2 or 3 times, changing the water each time.

Instead, you may use a very large container, such as a washtub, and leave overnight. Using a large amount of water, or changing a small amount frequently, is necessary to prevent shellfish from using up the oxygen in the water and then suffocating.

Note, by adding cornmeal to the water, shellfish will feed on the cornmeal and replace their stomach contents with the meal. This is desirable for those who do not like the appearance of the normal dark stomach contents of most shellfish.

More Blogs

Published September 11, 2023

Discover PEI Apple Orchards, Pumpkin Patches & More

While on PEI, a trip to the orchard or pumpkin patch is a memory-making outing that blends fun and fresh air—surrounded by stunning autumn scenery.
Published June 29, 2023

Discover the South Side of Points East Coastal Drive

The southern side of Points East Coastal Drive is distinctly beautiful and peaceful in summer with crops blooming in the fields, countless white or red sand beaches, perfect pairings for dining and finely crafted take-home products galore. Discover the hidden gems of the area.
Published May 30, 2023

Farm Experiences of Prince Edward Island

Farming communities are considered by many to be the backbone of the Island's rural culture. There's no better way to appreciate Canada’s Food Island than by meeting the farmers and producers who want to share their passion for food and animals. The options are many during a visit to Prince Edward Island.