To avoid the possibility of foodborne illness, fresh eggs must be handled carefully. Even eggs with clean, uncracked shells may occasionally contain bacteria called Salmonella that can cause an intestinal infection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is working to prevent this problem in eggs by requiring that egg producers obtain chicks that are certified Samonella free, that the hens are kept in houses that are free from rodents and other Salmonella carrying sources, that the houses are continually tested for Salmonella, and that the eggs are stored at temperatures that retard Salmonella growth. Consumers play a large role in this prevention strategy. In fact, the most effective way to prevent egg-related illness is by knowing how to buy, store, handle and cook eggs—or foods that contain them—safely.

Following these instructions is important for everyone but especially for those most vulnerable to foodborne disease—children, the elderly, and persons with weakened immune systems.

Buy Right

•Buy eggs only if sold from a refrigerator or refrigerated case.

•Open the carton and make sure that the eggs are clean and the shells are not cracked.

Refrigerate promptly.

•Store eggs in their original carton and use them within 4 to 5 weeks.

Keep Everything Clean

Before preparing any food, remember that cleanliness is key!

•Wash hands, utensils, equipment, and kitchen work surfaces with hot, soapy water before and after they come in contact with eggs and egg-containing foods

Cook Thoroughly

Thorough cooking is perhaps the most important step in making sure eggs are safe.

•Cook eggs until both the yolk and the white are firm. Scrambled eggs should not be runny.

Serve Safely

Bacteria can multiply in temperatures from 40°F (5°C) to 140°F (60°C), so it’s very important to serve foods safely.

•Serve cooked eggs and egg-containing foods immediately after cooking.

•For buffet-style serving, hot egg dishes should be kept hot, and cold egg dishes kept cold.

•Eggs and egg dishes, such as quiches or soufflés, may be refrigerated for serving later but should be thoroughly reheated to 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Chill Properly

•Cooked eggs, including hard-boiled eggs, and egg-containing foods should not sit out for more than 2 hours. Within 2 hours, either reheat or refrigerate.

•Use hard-cooked eggs (in the shell or peeled) within one week after cooking

On the Road

•Cooked eggs for a picnic should be packed in an insulated cooler with enough ice or frozen gel packs to keep them cold.

•Don’t put the cooler in a hot—carry it in the air-conditioned passenger compartment of the car.

Safe Handling Instructions

To prevent illness from bacteria: keep eggs refrigerated, cook eggs until yolks are firm, and cook foods containing eggs thoroughly.

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