Should I Wash My Store Bought Eggs?

You may be bringing your groceries home and wondering whether there are any further steps you can take to ensure they’re safe and ready to use. With the recent global health emergency being very present in our daily lives, it’s understandable that consumers may be asking some additional questions.

Here’s what you need to know about the cleanliness of your store bought eggs.

At the grading station, all eggs are vigorously washed and rinsed, prior to being packaged in cartons and therefore do not need to be washed once you get them home.  However, should you wish to rewash your eggs at home, follow these simple instructions:

1. In a bowl, add water that is warmer than the egg (but not hot).

 

2. Dip the egg into the water and lightly wipe it clean.

 

3. Rinse the egg under cool running water.

 

4. Gently dry your egg.

 

5. Place eggs back into the carton and refrigerate or use immediately.

 

Something very important to keep in mind is that eggs have a porous surface. This means that whatever you place on the shell of your egg has a chance of making it through to the other side. So while it may be tempting to disinfect eggs with antibacterial substances, using any kind of cleaner (bleach, etc.) could pose a health risk, as these products can transverse the porous shell of the egg and cause contamination.