Do Eggs Need to Be Washed Before You Use Them?

Nature’s Invisible Shield: The Egg Bloom

Every egg is born with a natural defense called the cuticle, or bloom. This nearly invisible coating seals microscopic pores in the shell, acting as armor against bacteria such as Salmonella.

The shell itself is covered in tiny pores. The bloom seals these pores, creating a natural barrier that prevents harmful bacteria from entering.

Washing unprocessed eggs under running water—especially if the water is cooler than the egg—can remove this protective layer. When that happens, bacteria can move from the outside of the shell to the inside. In other words, what feels like cleaning may actually reduce the egg’s natural protection.

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