Are you ready to crack the code on assessing the quality of chicken eggs?
Well, you're in for a yolking good time! In this blog post, we'll dive into the wonderful world of egg quality and share some excellent tips on how to assess if eggs are safe to consume-including the explanation behind the water floating test. But wait, there's more! We'll also explore other assessments you can do to assess the quality of your eggs like color, smell, and yolk appearance. We also won't leave you hanging when it comes to handling those dirty eggs, cracked eggs, or even eggs with shells of different hues. And hey, did we mention that two of our very own business owners, Angie and Kelsi, are egg aficionados themselves? They follow these instructions to collect their own eggs at home and on their family’s homestead! But that's not all – we'll even dish out some advice on egg collection frequency, proper storage methods, and to top it all off, we'll serve you a mouthwatering quiche recipe that'll make your safe-to-eat eggs shine. So, grab your apron and get ready to crack the shell of egg knowledge with us!
Assessing Egg Quality:
- Place the egg in a cup or bowl.
- Fill the container with cold water, ensuring the egg is covered with at least an inch of water.
- Observe the egg's behavior:
- If the egg stands upright on the bottom, it is still safe to eat but not as fresh.
- If the egg floats to the surface, it is no longer fresh and should be discarded.
- Egg Color: Fresh eggs typically have a consistent color, but different breeds may produce eggs with varying shades. Freckles on shells are harmless and do not affect quality.
- Smell: A fresh egg should have a neutral odor. If it emits a strong, unpleasant smell, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded.
- Yolk Appearance: Crack the egg open onto a clean plate or into a bowl. A fresh egg will have a firm, round yolk that sits high. A flat or runny yolk may indicate spoilage.
Handling Dirty Eggs:
1. Gently remove any visible dirt or manure using a dry cloth or brush.
2. Do not wash the eggs immediately, as water can push bacteria into the eggshell.
3. Prior to consumption, wash the eggs with warm water and mild detergent, ensuring not to soak them.
4. Rinse the eggs thoroughly and allow them to air dry or pat them dry with a clean towel.
Proper Handling and Collection:
To maintain egg quality and safety, follow these guidelines:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling eggs to prevent cross-contamination.
2. Collect eggs daily to ensure freshness and reduce the risk of spoilage.
3. Use a clean basket or container for egg collection, avoiding overcrowding to prevent breakage. A nice size metal basket can make collecting eggs a quick and simple task. We love using these clear egg containers instead of the more traditional cardboard ones. It doesn't matter if they get wet and can be washed to be reused.
Egg Storage:
1. Eggs from your own chickens: Store unwashed eggs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. They can last for up to two weeks. Eggs can be placed into the refrigerator for extra longevity. We prefer this egg holder as a reusable container for the fridge.
2. Store-bought eggs: Refrigerate store-bought eggs in their original carton to maintain freshness. They can last for several weeks in the refrigerator.
Love, The Overlook Gals