Washed vs Unwashed Quail Eggs: What is an egg bloom?
The United States is one of the few countries that promotes the sale of washed and refrigerated eggs. Fun fact- many European countries made it illegal for store bought eggs to be prewashed! It may surprise you to find out farm fresh eggs do not need to be stored in the fridge and here’s why.
When a hen lays her egg, she creates a protective layer over the egg called the bloom (or cuticle). This protective protein layer seals the eggs pores from external bacteria.
Commercial grade eggs commonly available in grocery stores in the United States have been washed prior to packaging in their carton. These eggs have had their protective bloom removed and now must be refrigerated to protect the eggs from any future bacteria growth.
Our quail eggs are unwashed, with their natural protective bloom intact. This means you have the option to store them either in a cool, dry place or in the refrigerator. Eggs you receive from us are fresh, we try our best to provide eggs that were laid fresh the day prior to shipping. In contrast to commercial grade eggs, those eggs can be 4-6 weeks old by the time you purchase them from your grocery store.
Your eggs are shipped unwashed with their protective natural bloom intact which enables your eggs to to keep well while they ship to your doorstep. Unwashed eggs can keep for up to two weeks at room temperature. For longer term storage, we do recommend refrigeration for up to 3 months.
Farm fresh eggs taste better and are free of cleaning chemicals. If possible in your area, look up local farmers markets and connect with your local growers. Farm fresh eggs are not only good for your pet but also yourself.
Want to store your eggs long term? Many of our customers freeze their quail eggs. The shells may crack from expansion but quail egg membranes are tough. Eggs that have been previously frozen need to be stored in the refrigerator and fed promptly after thawing.
On the topic of tough quail egg membranes, we highly recommend using quail egg scissors to crack open your eggs, if not feeding whole. The membranes can make quail eggs harder to crack open than a traditional chicken egg. The serrated edge of a steak knife can work as well.