Do Eggs Really Need Washing? What Older Home Cooks Should Know Before Cracking Them Open

When you wash an egg—especially with warm water or vigorous scrubbing—you remove that protective layer. Once it’s gone, the shell becomes more porous and can allow unwanted moisture or particles to seep in more easily.

In other words, the egg comes from the hen already “packaged” with its own safety feature.

What About Concerns Over Cleanliness?

Food safety is important, and many older adults take extra care in the kitchen. Fortunately, eggs from stores or trusted suppliers are already cleaned and handled under strict guidelines. They are safe to use as they are, as long as they’re stored properly and cooked thoroughly.

If an egg looks slightly dusty and it bothers you, you can gently wipe it with a dry cloth just before using it. This removes surface specks without stripping off the cuticle.

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