Purging Clams

Food Afield Podcast – Field Note: Purging Clams You dug the clams. Now what? One of the most common questions from new shellfish harvesters is what to do once the clams come home. In this Field Note episode, John Fraser takes a closer look at the process of purging clams, why people do it, what it actually accomplishes, and some of the misconceptions surrounding it. You’ll learn: * What purging is and why it matters * Whether purging removes contaminants or simply reduces grit * How clams feed and filter water * Different approaches to purging shellfish at home * Common mistakes that can kill your harvest before it reaches the table * Practical handling tips to improve eating quality This short Field Note episode fills in one of the gaps left from our clam harvesting documentary and provides practical information for anyone interested in gathering shellfish for themselves. Food Afield is a documentary-style podcast exploring wild food, traditional skills, hunting, fishing, foraging, and the stories that connect people to the landscapes they inhabit. Listen wherever you get your podcasts. Host: John Fraser Follow along on Instagram: @johnfraserswildlife If you enjoyed the episode, consider following the show and leaving a rating or review. It helps more people discover the world of wild food. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit foodafield.substack.com (https://foodafield.substack.com?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_1)