With the recent spread of bird flu, many people are concerned about whether it is safe to consume eggs. Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a virus that primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect humans. While there is a possibility that the virus could be present in eggs laid by infected chickens, experts reassure that proper cooking can eliminate the risk.
Dr Murali Bhaskar M, MBBS, FDM, Medical Advisor and Telemedicine Practitioner from Hyderabad, explains the risks and precautions to take when consuming eggs during a bird flu outbreak.
Can Bird Flu Spread Through Eggs?
Dr Bhaskar clarifies that while bird flu is primarily a poultry-related virus, there is a chance that an infected chicken could lay an egg carrying the virus. However, he reassures that this is rare and, more importantly, proper cooking destroys the virus completely.
"Bird flu is a virus that can sometimes infect chickens. If a chicken has bird flu, the virus might be present in the egg, though this is less common. Cooking the egg properly will kill the virus," says Dr Bhaskar.
How to Make Eggs Safe to Eat?
The key to ensuring eggs are safe to eat lies in proper handling and cooking methods. Dr Bhaskar outlines essential steps to minimise any risk:
1. Cook Eggs Thoroughly
The most important precaution is to cook eggs completely. Dr Bhaskar emphasises the need for eggs to reach a temperature of at least 74°C (165°F) to eliminate any traces of the virus or harmful bacteria.
"The entire egg needs to reach a temperature of 74°C. This means the yolk should be solid, not runny. If you're making scrambled eggs or an omelette, they should be fully cooked, not watery. Thorough cooking destroys the bird flu virus and also kills other bacteria like salmonella," he explains.
If you enjoy soft-boiled or runny eggs, it may be best to avoid them until the bird flu outbreak subsides. Opt for hard-boiled eggs, well-cooked omelettes, and scrambled eggs instead.
Also read: Is It Safe To Eat Eggs Every Day If You Have Diabetes?
2. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Handling raw eggs requires careful hygiene. Dr Bhaskar stresses the importance of washing hands after touching raw eggs to prevent contamination.
"Raw eggs can have viruses on the shell. After touching a raw egg, wash your hands with soap and water. Rub your hands together with soap for at least 20 seconds, making sure to clean between your fingers and under your nails. This prevents you from spreading bacteria to other surfaces or food," he advises.
3. Clean All Surfaces After Handling Eggs
Kitchen surfaces, utensils, and anything that comes into contact with raw eggs should be thoroughly cleaned.
"Clean any surfaces that came into contact with raw eggs, like the countertop, bowls, and utensils. Use soap and water to clean these surfaces. This helps prevent the spread of viruses," says Dr Bhaskar.
Also read: Boiled Egg Or Omelette, Which Is A Healthier Way To Eat Eggs?
4. Keep Raw Eggs Away from Other Foods
Cross-contamination can pose a significant risk when handling raw eggs. To prevent this, store eggs separately from foods that do not require cooking, such as fruits and vegetables.
"Keep raw eggs away from foods that you eat without cooking, such as fruits, vegetables, and cooked dishes. Even if the inside of the egg is usually safe, the outside shell might have bacteria," Dr Bhaskar warns.
5. Use Separate Utensils for Raw Poultry and Eggs
If you are preparing raw chicken, ensure that you use different cutting boards, knives, and utensils for poultry and eggs to avoid contamination.
"If you handle raw poultry (like chicken), use different cutting boards and utensils for the raw poultry than you use for other foods, including eggs. This is a good practice to prevent cross-contamination," he adds.
Conclusion
Eggs remain a nutritious and safe food option as long as they are handled and cooked correctly. By following these essential hygiene and cooking tips, the risk of contracting bird flu or any other foodborne illness can be significantly reduced. By taking these simple yet effective precautions, you can continue enjoying eggs safely, even during a bird flu outbreak.