When it comes to handling farm-fresh eggs, the image of chickens nestled in a clean straw nesting box means very little farmer intervention. At RimeFarm, we work hard to make sure our ladies have clean nesting boxes with more-than-enough straw. This act alone reduces the need for washing almost altogether. However, when our eggs do need a gentle cleanse, we opt for the most natural methods (and arguably the safest methods) to ensure nothing nasty is getting inside their semi-permeable shell. Let’s walk you through the process we use to clean our famous Rime Farm eggs. We want them to remain just as nature intended while also meeting the cleanliness standards our customers expect.
Egg washing always seems to be a topic of debate among commercial egg producers and small farmers. The primary concern is how to remove potential contaminants without compromising the egg’s natural protective barrier, also called the “bloom.” This naked-to-the-eye layer is super important as it helps prevent bacteria from entering the porous shell.
At RimeFarm, our philosophy is to interfere as little as possible with nature’s process. Thanks to our daily straw-stuffing rituals, our eggs typically remain very clean from the moment they are laid. This method ensures the freshness and safety of the eggs and also retains their natural defenses against contamination.
When and How We Wash Our Eggs
At RimeFarm, we primarily use the USDA organic apple cider vinegar (ACV) method for cleaning our eggs, as it effectively maintains the natural bloom while ensuring the eggs are clean and safe to eat. We prefer this method due to the natural properties of ACV and the gentle approach it offers. Plus, it’s inexpensive and we have tons of other uses for it around here. (Another blog post!) Here’s our step by step process using apple cider vinegar:
Apple Cider Vinegar Method
First, we mix one part USDA organic apple cider vinegar with ten parts water. We like this family owned brand because it’s family-owned and organic. This mild solution is effective enough to clean while preserving the egg’s natural protective bloom.
Next, the soiled eggs are briefly soaked in the ACV and warm water (Typically around 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 38 degrees Celsius). This helps to loosen any dirt without harsh scrubbing and the warmer than the egg temp water ensures the pores aren’t compromised with any bacteria.
If necessary, we gently scrub the eggs with a soft brush while they remain in the vinegar solution, ensuring that we do not damage the shell.
Then, the eggs are thoroughly rinsed under running warm water to remove any vinegar residue, which is essential for preventing any taste transfer.
Eggs are then dried using clean paper towels when time constraints exist, or they are left to air dry on a rack. This ensures they are completely dry before being packed into pristine, brand spankin’ new cartons.
As an aside, cartons are pricey! And, many states mandate the use of new cartons for farmers selling to retailers if sell quantities over a certain threshold. We never reuse cartons for egg resale. This serves as another guarantee that our eggs are clean and compliant with Maine law. We find other uses for used cartons, such as crafting, starting seedlings, or even bonfires—a topic for another blog post—our commitment to using new cartons for egg sales underscores our dedication to cleanliness and food safety.
For those times when a deeper cleaning is necessary, or as an additional precaution during particularly muddy days, some farmers use a gentle, food safe egg scrubbers. These products ensure effective cleaning while being gentle on the eggs:
The steps are basically the same as the ACV method. With that said, it’s important to read the package directions of the solution you ultimately purchase. This ensures you’re following their recommended directions.
Egg Washing Solution Method
You can start by briefly soaking the eggs in warm water, again the temperature should be slightly warmer than the egg’s temperature to prevent the pores of the shell from absorbing unwanted moisture and ickiness
Using a soft, clean brush or cloth or the scrubber above, scrub each egg gently under running water with the recommended washing solution.
Eggs should always be rinsed thoroughly with warm water to ensure no cleaning residue is left on the shell.
Then, allow the eggs to air dry on a clean towel or a drying rack, ensuring they are completely dry before packaging or refrigeration. And, that’s it!
Remember that when you wash eggs, you run the risk of removing at least some of that protective bloom. As a result, eggs must be stored at temperatures that do not exceed 45 degrees Fahrenheit from the time of cleaning until they are sold to ensure freshness and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Maintaining the natural quality of farm-fresh eggs while ensuring they are clean and safe is a balance. At RimeFarm, by keeping our nests full of clean straw, we minimize the need for washing. This preserves the eggs’ natural defenses. When washing is necessary, we use natural organic ACV to ensure our eggs are perfectly prepped for your kitchen without compromising their natural integrity. We use clean cartons and ensure they reach temps above 45. degrees Fahrenheit. By doing this we ensure that they taste, AND LOOK, delicious.
Need eggs? Check out C & E General Market, Machias Marketplace, Smithereen Farm Store, or Hardwick’s General Store.
Ask for Rime Farm eggs anywhere eggs are sold in Washington County.
FAQs
How often should farm-fresh eggs be washed?
Farm-fresh eggs should only be washed when necessary. At RimeFarm, thanks to lots of clean straw, our eggs usually remain very clean and rarely need washing. It’s best to wash eggs just before using them rather than washing and storing them, as washing can remove the protective bloom that helps keep the eggs fresh. Although, our eggs NEVER last long!
What are the benefits of keeping nests filled with straw?
Using straw in the nests offers multiple benefits:
Straw helps keep the eggs clean as it acts as a natural barrier between the eggs and any potential dirt or waste.
Straw provides a comfortable, natural bedding for chickens, which can reduce stress and promote healthier laying practices.
Straw insulates the chickens and the eggs, keeping them at a more consistent temperature which is crucial for egg viability, especially if eggs are fertilized.
Straw absorbs moisture, which helps maintain an optimal environment for the eggs and reduces the likelihood of bacteria growth.
Is it safe to eat eggs that have not been washed?
Yes, it is safe to eat unwashed eggs if they are collected from a clean environment. Unwashed eggs retain their natural protective coating, known as the bloom, which helps prevent bacteria from penetrating the shell. It’s important to ensure that the eggs are stored properly and that your hands and egg surfaces are clean when cracking them.
How does the egg’s bloom protect it?
The bloom (sometimes called the cuticle, although we haven’t heard that reference in awhile) is a natural, protective layer that covers the shell as the egg is laid. This layer serves as a barrier against bacteria and dust. It seals the pores of the shell to prevent contaminants from entering the egg and reduces moisture loss from the inside of the egg essentially prolonging the egg’s freshness.
Can I wash farm-fresh eggs with just water?
Yes, you can effectively wash farm-fresh eggs using just water, especially if the eggs are not very dirty. It’s important to use water that is warmer than the egg’s surface to prevent the egg from contracting and potentially pulling in bacteria through its pores. YUCK! Gentle scrubbing with a soft brush under running water will remove most surface gunk.
What should I do with eggs that are excessively dirty?
Eggs that are excessively dirty should be washed carefully to ensure they are safe for consumption. Use a mild, food-safe egg washing solution or a diluted apple cider vinegar solution. Scrub the eggs gently with a soft brush under running water to remove dirt. Be sure to rinse the eggs thoroughly to remove the ACV or any cleaning solution. Be sure to dry them immediately to prevent bacteria growth. If eggs are heavily soiled, it might be best to discard them especially if the dirt includes manure or other contaminant. Again,YUCK, plus this can pose a health risk. Break the shells and feed them back to your chickens!
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