Abstract: A process and apparatus for preparing bivalves for human consumption which includes depositing the bivalves in a fresh salt water bath maintained at a temperature of from about 46.degree. F. to about 54.degree. F. wherein the water is provided from an aquifer of not more than about 200 feet below the surface of the earth at a rate of from about 0.5 to about 2.0 gallons per minute per bushel, and preferably about 1 gallon per minute per bushel. The oxygen level in the fresh salt water is maintained at a level of from about 4 to about 10 ppm. As a result of the present invention, bivalves recovered, even from uncertified waters, can be sufficiently purified for human consumption in 48 hours without degrading the quality of the bivalves.