Giant Clam (Geoduck)

What Is Geoduck Clam?

Geoduck clam (pronounced “gooey-duck”) is a large clam (Panopea generosa) found along the Pacific coast of North America, especially in the waters off Washington and British Columbia. It gets its name from its thick, fleshy siphon, which can extend far beyond its shell.

While the shell remains relatively small, the siphon can grow to nearly 1 meter long, giving the clam an unusual appearance. It is a very long-lived species, and some specimens can live more than 100 years.

Geoduck Clam Nutrition

100 g of raw geoduck clam meat provides about 74 kcal; it is high in protein and low in fat, a typical profile for mollusks. Values are approximate.

How Should Geoduck Clam Be Eaten?

With its high protein and low fat content, geoduck clam can be part of a balanced diet; if eating it raw, it is important to buy it fresh and from a reliable source. Pregnant women, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems should not eat raw shellfish.

This information is general; geoduck clam is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Geoduck Clam

A good geoduck clam is alive, with a siphon that retracts when touched, a tightly closed shell, and a fresh ocean smell. Avoid clams with a sharp, ammonia-like odor or an unresponsive siphon.

• It should be alive, and the siphon should retract slightly when touched
• The shell should be tightly closed
• It should smell fresh and ocean-like, not ammoniacal

How to Store Geoduck Clam

If bought alive, geoduck clam should be kept in the refrigerator under a damp cloth and eaten within 1–2 days; it is among the more perishable seafood.

Using Geoduck Clam in the Kitchen

Geoduck clam is most often thinly sliced and served raw in sushi or sashimi; it is also briefly boiled and used in soups and sautés. After boiling, peel and slice the siphon.

How to Clean Geoduck Clam

Remove the meat from the shell, dip it briefly in boiling water, then place it in cold water; this makes the siphon’s outer skin easy to peel. Then slice it thinly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can geoduck clam be eaten raw?

Yes; when bought fresh and from a reliable source, it can be thinly sliced and eaten raw in the style of sashimi.

Why is geoduck clam expensive?

Harvesting and shipping it require special conditions, and supply is limited; high demand, especially in East Asia, increases its price.

Is geoduck clam available in Türkiye?

It is not common; fresh geoduck clam is almost never available, though it may be found in limited quantities from specialty seafood importers.