Things to check before buying eggs

Eggs are undeniably one of the most versatile and healthy foods, but do you know this staple is also prone to contamination of pathogens and bacteria? Well, read on to find out more about the risk of picking up unhygienic and contaminated eggs and things to keep in mind before buying.

Eggs are prone to contamination, this is due to several factors such as bacteria like Salmonella, which may be present on the eggshell or inside the egg. In fact, in some cases the contamination may also pass on through the infectious hens.

Consuming contaminated eggs can lead to foodborne illnesses such as Salmonellosis, which can cause symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting, posing serious health risks. Thus, health experts advise to eat cooked eggs and buy eggs carefully and keep a check on their quality. Here are some points to keep in mind while buying eggs.

Before you randomly pick eggs from a grocery store, always inspect the eggs for any cracks or breaks in the shell. Cracked eggs can potentially harbor bacteria and increase the risk of contamination.

Choose eggs with clean and intact shells. Avoid eggs with stains, dirt, or abnormal discoloration on the shell, as this could indicate poor handling and contamination.

Ensure that the eggs are properly packaged and stored in a refrigerated section of the store. Avoid purchasing eggs that are not stored under refrigeration or are displayed in unclean or unsanitary conditions. This can also increase the risk and lead to development of bacteria.

Eggs are available in different sizes, such as small, medium, large, and extra-large. Select the size of eggs based on your preference or recipe requirements. Always look at the shape, if the eggs look deformed then discard them.