Handle with Care: Enjoy Eggs Safely

A Guide to Proper Egg Handling for a Healthier Lifestyle

When it comes to enjoying farm-fresh eggs, understanding proper handling and storage is essential to maintain their quality and safety. Eggshells are porous, allowing air and moisture to pass through, which means they can also let bacteria in if not handled correctly (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, n.d.).

The Bloom: Nature’s Protective Coating

Freshly laid eggs are covered in a natural coating called the “bloom” or cuticle. This protective layer seals the eggshell’s pores, preventing bacteria from entering and reducing moisture loss (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, n.d.). Washing eggs removes this barrier, making them more susceptible to contamination. Therefore, unwashed eggs can be stored at room temperature for a limited time, while washed eggs require refrigeration (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2023a).

Washing Eggs: Best Practices

If you choose to wash your eggs, it’s crucial to do so properly to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination:

• Use water that is warmer than the egg’s temperature. Washing with cooler water can cause the egg’s contents to contract, drawing bacteria through the shell.
• Avoid using dish soap or scented cleaning solutions, as they can affect the egg’s taste. 
• After washing, rinse the eggs with water that is slightly warmer than the wash water. 
• Allow the eggs to air dry completely before storing them in the refrigerator at or below 45°F (7°C).

Following these steps can help maintain the eggs’ quality and safety for consumption (CDC, 2023a; Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, n.d.).

Storage Guidelines

• Unwashed eggs: When stored at room temperature, unwashed eggs can remain fresh for up to two weeks. However, for longer storage, refrigeration is recommended (CDC, 2023a).
• Washed eggs: Once washed, eggs should be refrigerated immediately and can last up to 15 weeks when stored properly (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, n.d.).
• Store-bought eggs: Commercial eggs are typically washed and sanitized before packaging, removing the natural bloom. Therefore, they must be kept refrigerated to ensure safety and freshness (CDC, 2023a).

Freezing Eggs

Freezing is an effective method for preserving eggs for extended periods. To freeze eggs:

1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and beat until blended.
2. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers.
3. Label with the date and freeze.

Frozen eggs can be stored for up to one year. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator and use promptly (National Institute on Aging, n.d.).

Conclusion

Proper egg handling is vital for ensuring the safety and quality of your eggs. By understanding the importance of the bloom, following appropriate washing techniques, and adhering to storage guidelines, you can enjoy fresh, delicious eggs while minimizing the risk of foodborne illness.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023a). Backyard poultry | Healthy pets, healthy people. https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/backyard-poultry.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023b). Egg preparation | Restaurant food safety. https://www.cdc.gov/restaurant-food-safety/php/practices/egg-preparation.html

National Institute on Aging. (n.d.). Storing cold food. https://www.nia.nih.gov/sites/default/files/2017-06/Storing-Cold-Food-Tipsheet.pdf

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. (n.d.). Selling yard eggs in Texas. https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/asset-external/selling-yard-eggs-in-texas/