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

• Store-bought eggs: These are typically processed according to safety standards. You can usually use them right from the carton without washing.

• Farm-fresh eggs: Many people still don’t wash them, relying on the natural cuticle. Others prefer a gentle rinse just before cooking. Either approach can work when handled with care.

The key is simple: choose what makes you comfortable, and treat the eggs in a way that fits your kitchen habits.

A New Appreciation for a Humble Ingredient

The next time you crack an egg into a bowl or whisk one into a family recipe, it’s worth pausing for a moment. Not only are eggs versatile and delicious—they arrive with their own natural protective design.

Whether you wash them or not, understanding that little layer of nature’s engineering can help you feel more confident in the kitchen and appreciative of a food that’s been part of our tables for generations.