Bad oysters are dry and withered with a cloudy appearance. Contaminated oysters tend to be grey, brown, black or pink in color. Smell the oyster meat. Healthy oysters smell fresh and mild.

What happens if you eat a bad oyster?

Potentially life-threatening to most people, symptoms of Vibrio vulnificus infection occurs within 24 to 48 hours of ingestion and may include symptoms such as sudden chills, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, shock and skin lesions.

Can you get sick from eating old oysters?

Unfortunately, one bad oyster can get you so sick you'll be out of commission for days. Food poisoning from oysters is somewhat rare, but if it gets you, it's important to monitor your health closely for at least three days, especially if you have other health complications.