Is it polite to pick mussels up and use empty shell to pluck mussel from shell?

Question

Is it polite to pick mussels up and use empty shell to pluck mussel from shell?

Answer 1

Table edicate and manners:

In general use the utensil that is meant for the task at hand. In this case you should use a 'Shrimp' or 'Fish' fork.

Now, where are you eating?

If you are at the local bar or at friends or families houses, it is ok to use the shell.

If you are dining in a formal setting, such as a wedding, awards dinner, formal restaurant or dinner party then it is not polite.

Answer 2

Sounds rather inventive, and perhaps even expedient---I guess it might depend on the company you keep, but at my table, one would be expected to use a seafood fork to remove the mussel from the shell.  That is why some cultures invented silverware so you aren't up to your second knuckle in your food.........  And God knows where your other hand has been.......

Answer 3

that is actually the neatest cleanest bestest way to eat them it is also the traditionally accepted way in many cultures.   It is definately the smarter way to go