The Truth About Washed vs. Unwashed Eggs

Hey there! 

Let’s talk eggs—specifically, the whole washed vs. unwashed egg debate. If you've ever pondered the difference between the two, you're not alone. It’s one of those topics that can make you scratch your head, so let’s break it down together.

What’s the Deal with Unwashed Eggs?

First things first, what are unwashed eggs all about? When an egg is laid, it’s covered with a natural protective coating called the “bloom” or cuticle. This magical layer helps keep bacteria out, which is pretty handy for eggs that might be sitting on a counter for a bit. In some parts of the world, it’s common to keep unwashed eggs at room temperature, all thanks to this little gift from nature. Sounds like a win, right?

But, let’s not get carried away. Along with that bloom comes everything else from the nesting box, like dirt, feathers, and yes, even a bit of chicken poop. So, while unwashed eggs might sound more “natural,” they can also come with a little more than you bargained for. And that’s where things get a bit tricky.

Why Wash Eggs?

Now, you might be wondering, if the bloom is so great, why do we bother washing eggs at all? Well, it’s all about cleanliness and safety. Here at CT Ranch, we believe that when you crack open an egg for your morning scramble, you shouldn’t have to worry about anything other than what you’re cooking. That’s why we sometimes give our eggs a gentle wash to remove any dirt or debris. It’s not about stripping away nature’s protection; it’s about ensuring you’re getting a clean product that’s ready to go when you are.

And let me clear something up—washing doesn’t mean we’re skimping on quality. Whether they’re washed or unwashed, our eggs come from the same flock of happy, healthy, pasture-raised hens. These ladies are out in the fields every day, soaking up sunshine, pecking at greens, and generally living their best chicken lives. That’s what makes our eggs so special, no matter how they’re cleaned up.

To Chill or Not to Chill

Another part of the conversation is refrigeration. In the U.S., washed eggs need to be refrigerated to keep them fresh, which is why you’ll find most eggs at the store sitting in a cool spot. That’s because washing removes the bloom, making the eggs more vulnerable to outside contaminants if left out. But here’s the good news! Once they’re in your fridge, washed eggs can stay fresh for weeks.

On the other hand, unwashed eggs can be left out at room temperature, thanks to that protective bloom. But they need to be handled with care, and you’ll want to eat them a bit quicker than their chilled counterparts.

What Really Matters

So, does it really make a difference? At the end of the day, the washed vs. unwashed debate comes down to personal preference. Some folks swear by the old-school, unwashed approach, while others prefer the peace of mind that comes with a clean, washed egg. 

The bottom line is this: our eggs, whether washed or unwashed, are top-notch because of how we raise our hens. They’re out there every day on green pastures, living as nature intended, and laying eggs that are packed with flavor and nutrition.

So next time you’re reaching for a carton of CT Ranch eggs, you can rest easy knowing you’re getting the real deal. Washed, unwashed—it’s all good when it comes from our farm to your kitchen.

Thanks for trusting us with your breakfast, your baking, and everything in between. We’re proud to be a part of your family’s table!