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Why Do Americans Refrigerate Their Eggs and Most Other Countries Don’t?

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In supermarkets across the United States, Australia, and Japan, eggs can be found in the refrigerated section alongside other cold items such as milk and cheese.

However, in most other countries of the world, eggs can be found stored at room temperature alongside nonperishable food items. People eat both kinds of eggs every day, usually without any ill effects. So why do some people refrigerate eggs and others don’t? The answer lies in the bacteria group known as salmonella and how a particular country chooses to make sure their eggs don’t get contaminated with it.

What are the arguments in favor of refrigerating eggs, and how does it impact the flavor and texture of eggs?

Eggs are a staple food for people around the world. Whether it’s scrambled, boiled, or baked, people consume eggs in various forms. Yet, there’s a significant difference in how Americans treat their eggs: they store them in the refrigerator, while most other countries keep them at room temperature. This cultural discrepancy has led to a growing debate about whether refrigerating eggs is necessary. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this practice and examine the arguments for and against it.

The reason why Americans refrigerate their eggs dates back to the 20th century when the country experienced a salmonella outbreak. Salmonella is a bacteria that can contaminate eggs and cause food poisoning. To prevent the spread of salmonella, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) implemented regulations that required egg producers to wash, sanitize, and refrigerate eggs at a temperature below 45°F (7°C) within 36 hours of being laid. This practice ensured that any salmonella present on the eggshell would not multiply.

On the other hand, most countries in Europe, Asia, and Africa do not wash nor refrigerate their eggs. Instead, they leave them at room temperature or in a cool pantry, often displayed on supermarket shelves without any cover or packaging. This practice is based on a belief that eggs are best consumed at their natural state, without being exposed to drastic temperature changes or humidity. Also, in some countries such as France and Italy, it’s illegal to wash eggs as it is commonly believed that the eggshell’s natural protective coating can be damaged, making it more susceptible to bacteria.

The controversy over egg refrigeration remains ongoing, with arguments for and against this practice. Advocates of egg refrigeration argue that it’s an effective way to prevent the spread of salmonella and other bacterial infections, as the cold temperature slows down bacterial growth. They also argue that washing eggs before storing them in the refrigerator eliminates the need for the protective coating on the eggshell as it serves no significant purpose. Furthermore, some people prefer the flavor of refrigerated eggs, as they maintain their freshness for a more extended period.

On the other hand, critics of egg refrigeration argue that it’s an unnecessary and wasteful practice that reduces the quality of the egg. Storing eggs in the refrigerator alters the moisture level inside the eggshell, causing the egg to lose some of its flavor and texture. It’s also said that refrigeration may cause eggs to absorb smells from other foods stored in the fridge, leading to an unpleasant taste. Additionally, some argue that refrigeration merely masks the problem of contamination, rather than genuinely solving it.

In conclusion, the debate over egg refrigeration is centered around food safety, flavor preference, and cultural habits. While refrigeration may be the norm in America, it’s essential to recognize that many other countries don’t follow this practice, and their eggs are safe and enjoyable to consume. Ultimately, whichever method you choose to store your eggs, it’s crucial to handle them with care, wash your hands after handling them, and never consume cracked or dirty eggs.