The first time we had our own laying hens, I had to learn how to wash fresh eggs. Simple, right?
That’s what I thought too. Until the eggs came in dirty and stained. We were selling these eggs to neighbors, and I did not want to sell unsightly eggs!
While some prefer unwashed fresh eggs, our customers preferred washed ones. As did we. Washed eggs keep in the fridge for several months.
But how could I get stain-free eggs? I was discouraged at first until I learned of adding vinegar to my wash water.
Now certain egg-washing solutions do the same thing, but why not use something that most people already have on hand?
After using vinegar to wash eggs, I was amazed at the difference it made.
Washing fresh eggs is an important step in maintaining their quality and safety.
Eggs are porous and can absorb bacteria and dirt from their environment, which can lead to contamination if not cleaned properly.
Fresh eggs don’t have to be washed because they have a natural bloom that keeps them fresh for several weeks. However, if the eggs are stained and dirty, you will want to wash them.
One method for washing fresh eggs is to use vinegar. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant and can help remove dirt and grime from the eggshell.
To use this method, pour about a cup of vinegar into your wash bowl. Gently place the eggs in the solution and use a soft brush or cloth to scrub them clean.
Rinse the eggs thoroughly with clean water and lay them on a paper towel or a cloth to air dry.
Why Wash Fresh Eggs?
Fresh eggs contain a natural bloom (a covering on the shell) that acts as a natural preservative. Eggs with the bloom will store at room temperature for several weeks if they contain the bloom.
Washing eggs removes this bloom, meaning they will go bad more quickly. Washed eggs always need to be stored in the refrigerator.
Washing eggs can also help to remove any dirt, feathers, or other debris that may be on the shell. This can improve the appearance of the eggs and make them more appealing to eat.
Customers that are used to buying eggs from the store might be turned off by dirty farm eggs. Cleanliness is always important when selling farm products.
It is important to note that not all eggs need to be washed. If the eggs have been laid by healthy hens and are clean, they may not need to be washed.
However, if the eggs are dirty or have been in contact with feces, they should be washed.
When washing eggs, it is important to use clean, warm water and a gentle touch. Rough handling can damage the shell and increase the risk of bacteria entering the egg. Don’t wash eggs with cold water.
While it would make sense that warm water would allow bacteria to penetrate the shell of the egg, it actually works the other way around.
When an egg is submerged in cold water, and the insides are warmer than the water, the pores open and pull bacteria in from the outside. (source)
Overall, washing fresh eggs is an important step to ensure that they are clean and safe to eat. By following proper washing techniques, you can help to reduce the risk of foodborne illness and enjoy delicious, healthy eggs.
How to Wash Fresh Eggs With Vinegar?
Washing fresh eggs is an important step to ensure their cleanliness and safety. Here are some simple steps to follow:
- First, gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a clean bowl, warm water, and a clean towel or paper towel.
- Next, inspect each egg for any visible dirt, feathers, or other debris. Discard any eggs that are cracked or have other defects.
- Pour warm water into a bowl. Add a cup of vinegar, and a splash of dishwashing soap and gently place the eggs in the bowl. The water should be at least 10 degrees warmer than the eggs to prevent them from contracting and pulling any bacteria through the shell.
- Let them soak for 5-10 minutes to make cleaning them easier.
- Using a soft-bristled brush or cloth, gently scrub each egg to remove any remaining dirt or debris. Be careful not to scrub too hard, as this can damage the shell and allow bacteria to enter.
- Rinse each egg under running water to remove any soap or vinegar residue.
- Dry the eggs with a clean towel or paper towel.
Remember, when washing eggs they need to be placed into the refrigerator immediately after they are dry. Unwashed eggs can be stored at room temperature until they have been washed.
What I ended up doing a lot of the time, was waiting until I had a bucket full of eggs. Then I only had to wash eggs once or twice a week.
Drying and Storing Fresh Eggs
After washing fresh eggs, the next step is to dry them properly before storing them. Here are some tips to ensure that your eggs stay fresh for as long as possible:
- Place the eggs in a clean and dry carton or container with the pointed end facing downwards. This will help to prevent the yolk from touching the air cell, which can cause spoilage.
- Store the eggs in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong odors. The ideal temperature for storing eggs is between 35°F and 40°F (1.7°C and 4.4°C).
Using vinegar to wash fresh eggs is a popular method that some people swear by. It made cleaning eggs a lot easier for me once I discovered how powerful it was against stains.
If the eggs aren’t stained, soapy water will be enough to clean them. Follow the same method outlined above, but skip the vinegar.
If you do choose to use vinegar, make sure to dilute it with water and use a solution that is no stronger than 1 part vinegar to 10 parts water. Gently rub the eggs with the solution and rinse them thoroughly with clean water. Dry the eggs as described above before storing.
Remember, the best way to ensure the safety and freshness of your eggs is to handle them with care and follow proper food safety guidelines. With these tips, you can enjoy delicious and healthy eggs from your backyard flock!
Knowing how to wash fresh eggs properly will keep you and your customers safe and satisfied.