Should You Wash Eggs Before Using?
In the US, do not wash store-bought eggs - they have already been washed and sanitized, and additional washing can push bacteria through the shell. Store them refrigerated. In Europe and many other countries, eggs are unwashed and unrefrigerated but have natural protective coatings. If you have farm-fresh unwashed eggs, wash them just before use, not before storage.
Key Takeaways
- US regulations require commercial eggs to be washed and sanitized before sale.
- Visibly dirty eggs should be gently cleaned or discarded, not cracked with debris on the shell.
- Once refrigerated, eggs should stay refrigerated - temperature changes cause condensation that can help bacteria enter.
Explanation
US regulations require commercial eggs to be washed and sanitized before sale. This removes the natural protective coating (bloom or cuticle) that seals the porous shell. Without this coating, eggs must be refrigerated to prevent bacteria from entering. Washing them again at home can force bacteria through the now-unprotected shell into the egg.
European eggs are not washed, preserving the natural bloom that prevents bacteria from entering. These eggs can be stored at room temperature. Different food safety philosophies: the US washes eggs and vaccinates chickens less; Europe vaccinates chickens more and keeps the natural shell protection.
For farm-fresh or backyard eggs that have not been washed: store them unwashed and unrefrigerated if you will use them soon, or refrigerate for longer storage. Wash just before cracking to avoid pushing any surface contamination through the shell. Use warm water (not cold, which can create suction) and dry immediately.
Things to Know
- Visibly dirty eggs should be gently cleaned or discarded, not cracked with debris on the shell.
- Once refrigerated, eggs should stay refrigerated - temperature changes cause condensation that can help bacteria enter.
- Egg carton dates are usually 'sell by' dates; eggs are typically good for 3-5 weeks after purchase.