There is something satisfying about collecting fresh eggs from your own backyard flock. But anyone who keeps chickens knows that eggs do not always come out of the nesting box perfectly clean. Feathers, mud, bedding and other debris can sometimes end up on the shell. Knowing what to do when that happens is an important part of keeping fresh eggs clean and properly handled.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Fresh Eggs?
For backyard flock eggs, the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends dry cleaning first. A clean, dry cloth, brush, paper towel or egg sander can be used to gently remove light debris. Eggs with cracks or heavy fecal contamination should be discarded.
If you choose to wash an egg with water, use clean drinking water that is warmer than the egg, use running water rather than soaking it, and dry the egg quickly and thoroughly afterward. An egg washing detergent can also be used according to its manufacturer's directions.
Who Is GoodEgg Wash For?
GoodEgg Wash is designed for people who collect fresh eggs, including backyard chicken keepers and small flock owners.
Ritchie Feed & Seed now carries GoodEgg Wash, an enzyme based cleanser made specifically for fresh eggs. The product uses naturally derived plant enzymes and is designed to help remove stubborn debris such as mud, feathers and material picked up around the coop.
When Should You Clean Your Eggs?
The best approach actually starts before an egg needs cleaning.
Keeping the coop and nesting boxes clean and collecting eggs regularly can reduce how dirty eggs become. The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends collecting eggs twice a day and keeping nesting areas clean.
If an egg only has a small amount of debris, dry cleaning is preferred. If you decide that washing is necessary, clean it carefully and refrigerate it afterward.
Where Should Eggs Be Cleaned?
Clean your eggs in a clean area away from the coop and chickens. Wash your hands before and after handling eggs and make sure the equipment used for cleaning is properly cleaned and sanitized as well.
Once cleaned, backyard eggs should be refrigerated. Public Health Agency of Canada guidance says they can generally be stored in the refrigerator for three to four weeks.
Why Does Proper Egg Cleaning Matter?
Even eggs from healthy looking chickens can carry germs such as Salmonella. Bacteria can be present on the shell, which is why good coop hygiene, careful egg collection and proper handling are important.
Cleaning is not simply about making an egg look nicer. It is part of safely handling the food that comes from your backyard flock.
How Do You Use GoodEgg Wash?
According to the product directions, start by rinsing the egg with warm water. Apply GoodEgg Wash using the GoodEgg Brush, gently clean the shell, then rinse with warm water again. Repeat if necessary.
Always follow the directions on the product label and remember that Canadian guidance recommends dry cleaning first whenever possible.
Good eggs really do start with good flock care. Clean nesting boxes, frequent egg collection, proper cleaning and refrigeration all help you handle your backyard eggs with confidence.
When washing is needed, GoodEgg Wash gives backyard flock owners a product specifically designed for cleaning fresh eggs.
Visit Ritchie Feed & Seed to check out GoodEgg Wash and other backyard chicken essentials. https://www.ritchiefeed.com/products/goodegg-brush?_pos=1&_psq=good-egg&_psid=c4ff848a2&_ss=e
