Cracked eggs may pose a particular danger — here’s what to know

January 2, 2025

With egg prices currently soaring, it can be disheartening to open a box at home and find that one or two of your eggs have been broken, either in transit on the way home from the supermarket or for unknown reasons at home. Maybe. refrigerator.

As FOX Business reported this week, egg prices and the number of bird flu cases across the U.S. continue to rise, according to a report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). As a result, US egg production fell by 4% in November.

But what can you do with a cracked egg? Is all hope lost?

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Our egg experts shared their 'egg expertise' on the subject.

“Basically, it depends on when the egg cracked,” Lisa Steele, author of “Fresh Eggs Daily” and a Maine-based backyard chicken expert, told FOX News Digital told.

If you find a cracked egg in the store, do not use it as it is dangerous. (St. Petersburg)

“You don't want to use an egg that you find broken in a store-bought carton,” Steele said, because consumers don't know how long it's been sitting there broken. .

It is also important to check the eggs for cracks before purchasing.

The eggshell, along with the egg membrane, protects the egg from harmful bacteria such as Salmonella.

During the winter, eggs in backyard chicken coops are susceptible to cracking due to the cold.

“But if I know you just cracked an egg by accident, I'll cook it and say it's delicious,” she said.

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During the winter, eggs in backyard chicken coops are more susceptible to cracking due to the cold temperatures, Steele told Fox News Digital.

Steele said he personally plans to use eggs he recently accidentally broke, but only if the membranes are still intact.

Always check eggs at the grocery store for cracks before purchasing. (St. Petersburg)

“That membrane will protect you.” [the egg] It’s caused by bacteria,” she said.

“Crack the eggs into a small bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a lid, make sure to cook through at least 160 degrees, and use within two days.”

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But if the membrane breaks down, it's not safe for human consumption, Steele said.

However, it is still suitable for compost bins.

“The calcium in the shell has a positive effect on the soil,” she said.

The Department of Agriculture also shared similar guidance on its website.

The Ministry of Agriculture says, “Bacteria may enter through cracks in the egg shell. Never buy cracked eggs.''

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Eggs that break during cooking processes such as hard-boiling are “safe,” the Agriculture Department said.

There is no need to throw away this broken egg.

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Also, “remember that all eggs need to be fully cooked,” the same source said.

Although eggs were not historically considered a “health food,” the FDA now classifies them as a “healthy and nutritious” food under new proposed regulations.