About 60 percent of the eggs sold in the United States come from processors who participate in USDA’s grading service, voluntarily paying to have their eggs graded so the eggs can display a “USDA Grade A” or “AA” shield on their cartons. The grade is based on qualities that can be observed in the shell, yolk, and egg white when the egg is inspected with lights and other specialized equipment. Specifics on egg-grading criteria can be found here.
Egg processors who participate are required to spray-wash their eggs with warm water and use a sanitizing rinse and air-drying techniques specified by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).
Yeah, as an American I’m surprised it’s only 60 percent. Pretty much anything I’ve ever seen available to me has been washed/graded/refrigerated. Maybe farmer’s markets? But no way do they have 40 percent market share. I’ve occasionally had friends with coops so I’m not unfamiliar with having shelf stable eggs, though.
At this point I think the thing that’d freak out Americans the most is the whole thing about not needing to refrigerate. It’s ingrained now.
https://tellus.ars.usda.gov/stories/articles/how-we-store-our-eggs-and-why
FYI multiple studies have found that there is no safety benefit to washing. It just looks nicer, and people think it’s safer.
Thanks, that confirms my understanding, although I’m surprised the participation rate is as low as it is. That’s really interesting, thanks!
Yeah, as an American I’m surprised it’s only 60 percent. Pretty much anything I’ve ever seen available to me has been washed/graded/refrigerated. Maybe farmer’s markets? But no way do they have 40 percent market share. I’ve occasionally had friends with coops so I’m not unfamiliar with having shelf stable eggs, though.
At this point I think the thing that’d freak out Americans the most is the whole thing about not needing to refrigerate. It’s ingrained now.