Why the U.S. Washes Eggs (250+ words)

In the early 20th century, the U.S. had widespread issues with Salmonella outbreaks, tied to industrial-scale egg production. To control contamination on the surface of shells, the USDA created regulations requiring:

• mandatory egg washing
• sanitation before packaging
• strict refrigeration

This industrial washing process is strong — it uses warm water, detergent solutions, pressure sprayers, and sanitation rinses to remove all organic material. It also strips off the natural bloom.

Because the bloom is removed, the U.S. must then:

• refrigerate eggs from farm to store
• keep them cold permanently

Refrigeration prevents the now unprotected egg from sweating or developing condensation, which can draw bacteria inside the shell.

So in the U.S., the official rule is:

👉 Eggs are washed for you — don’t wash them again at home.

Double washing spreads bacteria or forces contaminants through the pores.

Why Many Countries Never Wash Eggs (200+ words)

In Europe, food safety authorities take the opposite approach:

• eggs should never be washed
• the bloom must remain intact
• refrigeration is optional, not required
• eggs can be stored on the counter

Their approach is:
Protect the egg’s natural barrier.

Since they maintain the bloom, eggs don’t require refrigeration and remain safe at room temperature.

In these countries, washing your eggs at home before cracking them open is considered unsafe.

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So… Should YOU Wash Eggs Before Using Them? (The Clear Answer)

Here is the definitive rule:

⭐ **If your eggs were washed before purchase (like in the U.S. or Canada):

DO NOT wash them again.
Just crack and use.

⭐ **If your eggs are unwashed (farm eggs, backyard eggs, European eggs):

Do NOT wash until right before using — and only if needed.

Washing unwashed eggs is acceptable only if you cook or refrigerate them immediately afterward.

What Happens If You Wash Eggs Too Early? (250+ words)

When you wash an unwashed egg under running water, here’s what happens:

1. Bloom dissolves

Now bacteria can pass into the interior.

2. Water pressure pulls bacteria inward

Warm water causes the egg contents to expand slightly.
Cold water causes the egg to contract.
Either way, you risk bacteria being pulled through the shell pores.

3. Eggs must be refrigerated immediately

Once the bloom is gone, the egg is no longer shelf-stable.

4. Shelf life decreases

Unwashed eggs can last 3–4 weeks on the counter and 2–3 months in the fridge.
Washed eggs last only 2–3 weeks.

5. Contamination risk increases

Salmonella exists primarily on the shell, not inside the egg.
But washing can push bacteria inside — where cooking must kill it.

This is why countries with unwashed eggs strongly warn against washing them casually or unnecessarily.

When Should You Wash Eggs? (Only in These 3 Cases)

1. If you have true farm-fresh, unwashed eggs and they are visibly dirty

Instead of rinsing, it’s best to scrape off debris with:

• a dry paper towel
• a slightly damp cloth
• fine sandpaper

Only rinse if absolutely necessary.

2. If your recipe uses raw eggs (like tiramisu or mayonnaise)

Never use dirty eggs in raw recipes.
If your eggs are visibly dirty, choose a clean one or wash immediately before cracking.

3. If you are about to crack the egg and you want extra peace of mind

You may wash unwashed eggs only right before cracking.

Never wash ahead of time.

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How to Properly Wash an Egg (If You Must)

Here’s the safest method:

1. Use warm running water (warmer than the egg).
2. Do not soak — soaking encourages bacteria entry.
3. Do not use soap — shells are porous.
4. Dry immediately with a clean towel.
5. Crack or refrigerate immediately after.

Never wash eggs and then leave them on the counter.

How Commercially Washed Eggs Should Be Handled

If your eggs come from a grocery store in:

• USA
• Canada
• Japan
• Australia (most brands)

Then they have already been washed.

For these eggs:

✔️ Do NOT wash at home

✔️ Keep refrigerated

✔️ Use by the “Best By” or “Sell By” date

✔️ Return eggs to the fridge immediately after using

These eggs lose freshness rapidly if left out.

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