The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 1 in every 20,000 eggs are contaminated with Salmonella. Even some undamaged, fresh eggs may contain Salmonella bacteria, which can cause foodborne illness. Eggs must be properly handled, refrigerated and cooked before being consumed in order to be safe.
In a recent blog, University of Minnesota Extension suggests some ways to prepare your eggs to ensure that you are consuming them safely. Here are a few of them:
- Buy eggs that have been refrigerated.
- Store your eggs in the refrigerator, in their carton, at 40 degrees F or below.
- Don’t wash your eggs.
- Serve your cooked eggs and egg dishes as soon as possible after cooking.
Regardless of whether it is for health purposes or not, no one should eat foods containing raw eggs. Salmonella can cause serious intestinal infections, especially in those lacking a strong immune system, which includes young children and elderly.
