In the United States, washing eggs before they are sold to consumers is standard practice. This is done to remove any dirt, debris, or bacteria that may be present on the eggshell.
One of the main reasons that eggs are washed in the US is to meet regulatory standards set by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA). According to the USDA, eggs must be washed, sanitized, and refrigerated to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. In the US, The eggs are placed in a rotating drum with brushes that gently scrub the surface of the eggshell to remove dirt, debris, and bacteria. After the eggs are washed, they are typically sprayed with a sanitizing solution, including chlorine or other chemicals. This is done to reduce the risk of foodborne illness by killing any remaining bacteria on the eggshell. It's important to note that using bleach as a sanitizing agent for eggs is not allowed under the USDA's regulations. However, other chemicals, such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, may be used as a
sanitizer. However, this process also removes the natural protective coating on the egg, known as the "cuticle."The cuticle is a thin, waxy layer on the eggshell's surface that helps protect the egg from bacteria and other contaminants. Unfortunately, when the cuticle is removed through washing, the egg becomes more susceptible to bacteria and other forms of contamination.
However, in other countries, such as Germany, eggs are not typically washed before being sold. Instead, they are left with their natural protective coating intact. In addition, eggs are often stored on shelves at room temperature rather than refrigerated in these countries.
There are several reasons why this approach is more effective at maintaining the safety and quality of eggs. For one, the cuticle helps keep the eggshell dry, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Additionally, the cuticle contains antimicrobial properties preventing the growth of harmful bacteria on the eggshell. Finally, do not wash your eggs in Germany before using them; doing so can introduce bacteria into your yolk and white.
Overall, it is important to consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of washing eggs before they are sold to consumers. While washing may help to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, it also removes the natural protective coating on the egg that helps to keep it fresh and free from contamination.