Not all chicken eggs are safe to consume. According to recommendations from health experts, it is best to avoid eating chicken eggs that exhibit the following characteristics.
Chicken eggs are considered a “superfood” due to their high nutritional value while not contributing to weight gain or affecting blood sugar levels. Notably, eggs contain lecithin, which greatly aids in improving human memory, preventing arteriosclerosis, and benefiting cardiovascular health as well as cerebral blood vessels.
However, despite their benefits, all foods have certain precautions regarding preparation and storage. Not every chicken egg is healthy to consume. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and various health experts in China, it is advisable to avoid eating chicken eggs that have the following characteristics.
1. Cracked Eggs: Risk of Bacterial Infection
When an egg’s shell is cracked, bacteria can enter and pose a health risk to consumers.
According to the CDC, chicken egg shells may harbor Salmonella bacteria. This bacterium can cause food poisoning and even death in consumers. When the egg shell is cracked, this bacteria can infiltrate the inside and jeopardize consumer health. Therefore, experts recommend not storing cracked eggs in the refrigerator as they can cause cross-contamination with other foods. In fact, it is best to discard them immediately rather than consume them.
2. Raw or Soft-Boiled Eggs: Increased Intestinal Burden and Risk of Poisoning
It is challenging to absorb nutrients from soft-boiled or raw eggs.
Soft and creamy are what we often associate with raw or soft-boiled eggs. However, it is not advisable to consume too many of these types of eggs because the body finds it harder to absorb nutrients from them compared to fully cooked eggs. Nutrient absorption from boiled eggs can reach 98%, while soft-boiled eggs only allow for 81% absorption.
According to the CDC, consuming eggs that are not fully cooked can expose individuals to Salmonella bacteria, leading to infections, indigestion, impaired nutrient absorption in the intestines, increased intestinal burden, and even food poisoning or life-threatening scenarios.
3. Eggs Left Overnight: Harmful to Digestive Health, Potential for Diarrhea
According to Chinese nutrition expert Zhang Xinyi, people should not leave eggs overnight, as this can lead to the growth of dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, which can harm the digestive system and potentially cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting in severe cases.
The CDC advises everyone to consume eggs immediately after cooking and not to keep eggs or egg-based foods at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the room temperature is 90°F (32°C) or higher. Many people have the habit of boiling eggs the night before, so it is important to change this practice.
4. Washed Eggs Stored in the Refrigerator: Risk of Bacterial Contamination
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) warns against washing eggs before storing them in the refrigerator. The washing process removes the protective membrane surrounding the egg, allowing bacteria to penetrate. The USDA recommends that individuals refrain from washing eggs to maintain the protective layer that extends their shelf life.
Important Tips for Consuming Chicken Eggs
1. You should boil eggs in water that completely covers them. After the water boils, continue to boil the eggs for an additional 8-10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked. Avoid overcooking eggs, as this may reduce their nutritional value.
2. Always consume eggs immediately after cooking; do not keep eggs or egg-based foods at room temperature for more than 2 hours, or for 1 hour if the room temperature is 90°F (32°C) or higher.
3. Only use eggs within 30 days of purchase, as prolonged storage may lead to nutrient loss.
4. Eggs are best combined with black beans, bell peppers, and vegetables.
