What is the US approach to storing and handling eggs prior to consumption?

What is the US approach to storing and handling eggs prior to consumption?

• A. Must refrigerate; eggs washed prior to entering market.
• B. Eggs do not require refrigeration and are not washed.
• C. Eggs must be refrigerated but are not washed before market.
• D. Eggs can be stored at room temperature and are washed after market.

Answer: (A)

In the United States, shell eggs intended for sale are washed and kept cold to protect public health. The washing step removes dirt and reduces microbial contamination, but it also strips away the natural protective coating on the egg, so refrigeration becomes essential to slow any remaining bacteria and preserve freshness as the eggs move through the supply chain. This combination—washing followed by continuous refrigeration—helps minimize the risk of illness from Salmonella and other pathogens. You’ll notice this approach differs from practices in some other regions where eggs aren’t washed, leaving the protective bloom intact and allowing room-temperature storage. Here, the mandatory washing paired with refrigeration is the standard to maintain safety and quality from farm to consumer.

In the United States, shell eggs intended for sale are washed and kept cold to protect public health. The washing step removes dirt and reduces microbial contamination, but it also strips away the natural protective coating on the egg, so refrigeration becomes essential to slow any remaining bacteria and preserve freshness as the eggs move through the supply chain. This combination—washing followed by continuous refrigeration—helps minimize the risk of illness from Salmonella and other pathogens.

You’ll notice this approach differs from practices in some other regions where eggs aren’t washed, leaving the protective bloom intact and allowing room-temperature storage. Here, the mandatory washing paired with refrigeration is the standard to maintain safety and quality from farm to consumer.