OFFICIAL SITE OF THE STATE OF NEW JERSEY

New Jersey Department of Health

Shellfish Sales

A Harvester or Aquatic Farmer is prohibited from selling raw shellfish directly to the public. Any person who intends to sell raw shellfish may apply to become a Certified Dealer and may apply for a Retail Food Establishment license.

A Certified Dealer is permitted to sell raw shellfish to other Certified Dealers, Retail Food Establishments (e.g., restaurants, supermarkets, etc.), and interstate shellfish distributors. For basic requirements, see Become a NJ Certified Dealer.

Certified Dealers are listed on the Interstate Certified Shellfish Shippers List. 

A Certified Dealer is prohibited from selling raw shellfish directly to the public unless the dealer also has a Retail Food Establishment license through the respective local health department. Find local health department information in The Directory of Local Health Departments in NJ.

To become a Certified Dealer, complete and submit the following two applications:

• NJDOH Wholesale Food-Cosmetic Application
• NJDOH Application for Certification to Handle Oysters, Clams, and Mussels

A licensed Retail Food Establishment may sell raw shellfish directly to the public in accordance with N.J.A.C. 8:24, Sanitation in Retail Food Establishments. 

Approval from the local health department is required prior to selling raw shellfish at a farmers market.