Don't Be Indiscriminate, Here's the Risk of Washing Eggs Before Cooking

JAKARTA - Before cooking, food ingredients are usually washed first, such as vegetables, fruits, even eggs. However, it should be noted that eggs are not recommended to be washed before cooking.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), said the process of washing eggs can remove the natural protective layer or the so-called 'cuticle' from the surface of the egg.

The egg itself has an edible oil layer. This layer serves to prevent bacterial contamination that can damage the egg.

Therefore, washing eggs, especially under running water or using cold water can encourage bacteria to enter the egg. This is because the egg shell or shell is easily porous and makes the egg unfit for consumption.

"If you wash eggs before cooking them, it can make the shell brittle, water can push bacteria into the egg," explained holistic health expert Amy Leigh Mercree, quoted from Reader's Digest, Wednesday, April 22, 2026.

However, fresh eggs from farms are likely not to have undergone strict cleaning processes. This has the potential to have dirt on the shell or larger egg surfaces.

Thus, if you buy eggs directly from the farmer, it is recommended to clean them with warm water and do not use soap. However, if you buy eggs at the supermarket, it is not recommended to wash them because it can damage the eggs.

Meanwhile, inside the egg contains high protein content and vitamins, as well as important minerals that are good for body health. Proper processing is very necessary so that various nutrients in it are damaged.