Is It Safe to Use and Eat a Cracked Egg?
It’s difficult to find an ingredient as versatile as the humble chicken egg. Whether you’re a baker or a home cook, eggs are a staple in countless recipes. Sometimes, they even take center stage when you’re frying a few for breakfast.
The eggs you pick up from the grocery store or local farmers’ market are the foundation for fluffy meringue pies and hearty egg salad sandwiches. However, they all share one significant characteristic: they’re incredibly fragile! In the U.S., eggs are particularly delicate because they’re washed before being sold, which is why they require refrigeration.
If you’ve ever encountered a cracked egg, you may have wondered: should you eat it or toss it? The short answer is that it’s usually unsafe to consume, but there are exceptions. Let’s explore the potential risks and what the experts (or “eggs-perts”) say about consuming cracked eggs.
Learn more about safe cooking practices
Is a Cracked Egg Safe to Eat?
According to the USDA, cracked eggs are generally unsafe to use. The main concern is that cracks in the shell allow bacteria, like salmonella, to enter. While the CDC estimates that only about one in 20,000 eggs is contaminated with salmonella, the risks of severe gastrointestinal issues make it wise to err on the side of caution.
If you’re unsure when or how an egg cracked, the safest option is to discard it. However, if you saw the crack happen, you might still be able to salvage the egg. For example, if an egg cracks on your way home, you can immediately remove it from the shell, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Additionally, eggs that crack during the hard-boiling process are safe to eat, according to the USDA.
How to Avoid Cracked Eggs
To prevent bringing home cracked eggs, always inspect the carton before purchasing. Don’t hesitate to rotate the eggs gently in the carton, as cracks can sometimes hide on the underside. If you spot damaged eggs, notify a store employee so they can remove them.
When transporting eggs home, keep the carton on top of your shopping bag to avoid pressure from heavier items. Make it a priority to unpack the eggs first when you arrive home, and double-check the carton for any cracks before placing it in the fridge. If you find a cracked egg at this point, you can still salvage it using the method mentioned earlier.
While decorative egg holders are popular, the safest way to store eggs is in the original carton, as it provides protection and helps maintain freshness. Avoid stacking anything on top of the carton to reduce the risk of cracking.
