Product HUB

Categories

Compare products

Top products

Home

Fish and seafood

Clams

Clams — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Clams photo

Listonic Team

September 5, 2024

Clams are a type of shellfish that add a delicate seafood flavor to meals. Learn how to clean, prepare, and cook clams to bring out their best taste in soups, pastas, and more.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of clams, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 148 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs5 g1.82%
Fiber0 g-
Sugars0 g-
Glycemic Index0 -
Protein26 g52%
Sodium98 mg4.26%
Total Fat2 2.56%

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Among other things, here's what makes clams stand out:

26 g

💪 High Protein Content

Key takeaways

🛒
Choose fresh clams that are closed or close when tapped. They should have a fresh, ocean-like smell.
😋
Clams are high in protein and low in fat.
📦
Store fresh clams in the refrigerator, in a bowl covered with a damp cloth, and use within one to two days. Do not store them in airtight containers as they need to breathe. Cooked clams should be refrigerated in an airtight container and used within three to four days. For longer storage, freeze shucked clams in an airtight container for up to three months.

Health benefits

Uncover how clams can be a rich source of protein and minerals, contributing to a nutritious and balanced diet.
  • Rich in protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function.
  • High in iron, which helps in the formation of red blood cells and prevents anemia.
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin B12, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support energy metabolism, immune function, and overall health.
  • Supports heart health with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
  • Low in fat and calories, making them a healthy and nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Health risks

Discover the health risks and concerns associated with clams.
  • Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria, viruses, or toxins, particularly in raw or undercooked clams, leading to foodborne illness.
  • Potential for allergic reactions in individuals with shellfish allergies, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or anaphylaxis.
  • High cholesterol content which can contribute to increased cholesterol levels if consumed in large quantities, particularly in individuals sensitive to dietary cholesterol.
  • Risk of heavy metal exposure such as mercury, depending on the source of the clams, which can pose long-term health risks with excessive consumption.
Conversion widget image

Add clams to your digital grocery list!

How to choose clams

Fresh clams should be purchased alive, with shells tightly closed or that close when tapped. Smell the clams before buying; they should have a clean, ocean-like scent, not fishy or foul.

Discard any clams that have cracked shells or those that remain open when handled. Good clams will be heavy and full, indicating that they are alive and well-hydrated.

How to choose clams

How to store clams

Clams should be stored in the refrigerator, covered with a damp cloth. Keep them in a bowl or container to catch any liquid. Properly stored, fresh clams can last up to two days.

Airtight containers can suffocate clams, so avoid using them. It's important to keep clams cool but not in direct contact with ice. Do not store clams in water, as this can cause them to die and spoil. Ensure they are used promptly for the best quality.

✅ Extra Tip

To keep clams at their best, store them in the coldest part of the refrigerator, typically the back or bottom, and avoid stacking them to ensure they can breathe properly.

How long do they last?

Clams can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator if kept in a breathable container. For longer storage, clams can be frozen for up to 3 months. Ensure they are tightly sealed before freezing.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover clams can be used in a variety of seafood dishes. Chop them and add to pasta dishes with garlic, white wine, and herbs for a classic meal, or mix them into a clam chowder with potatoes and cream for a comforting soup. Clams are also great in stews or paella, where their briny flavor adds depth to the dish.

Use clams in a seafood salad with lemon, olive oil, and fresh herbs, or add them to a pizza with garlic, cheese, and parsley for a unique twist. If you have a lot of clams, consider making a batch of clam dip with cream cheese, lemon, and hot sauce, perfect for serving with crackers or bread. Clams can also be stuffed and baked with breadcrumbs and herbs, or used in a risotto with Parmesan and butter for a rich, creamy dish. For a quick snack, try sautéing clams with garlic and butter, then serving them with crusty bread for dipping.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

How clams support specific health conditions

Clams are a nutrient-dense shellfish rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing inflammation. They are also high in iron, promoting blood health by preventing anemia. Clams contain vitamins B12 and D, which support brain function and bone health. Additionally, clams are low in calories and fat, making them an excellent option for weight management.

Discover products from other categories