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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/fish-vibrio-cook-temp

To what internal temperature does DOH say to cook shellfish?

145 degrees F.

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  1. At least 100 degrees F
  2. At least 145 degrees F ✔
  3. At least 212 degrees F

Why: DOH says cooking shellfish to 145 degrees F for 15 seconds destroys Vibrio. Shells opening does not mean they are done; they need to cook longer.

Huh, didn't know that: Vibrio multiply rapidly in warm conditions, so the risk is higher in summer.

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What did one fish say to the other? Keep your mouth shut and you won't get caught.
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References

Answer: At least 145 degrees F. DOH says cooking shellfish to 145 degrees F for 15 seconds destroys Vibrio. Shells opening does not mean they are done; they need to cook longer.

  1. Washington DOH Shellfish Handling, Storing, and Cooking doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/shellfish/recreational-shellfish/illness-prevention/handle-store-and-cook
    shellfish must be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 145°F for 15 seconds.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Washington DOH Vibrio in Shellfish doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/shellfish/recreational-shellfish/illnesses/vibriosis
    Symptoms usually appear about 12 to 24 hours after consumption
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  3. Washington DOH Vibrio in Shellfish doh.wa.gov/community-and-environment/shellfish/recreational-shellfish/illnesses/vibriosis
    They multiply rapidly in warm conditions
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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