Are eggs good or bad 2023?

In 2023 and beyond, eggs are generally considered a healthy, nutrient-dense food, offering high-quality protein, vitamins (like D, B12), minerals, and antioxidants, with the FDA also recognizing them as healthy. While past concerns about dietary cholesterol have lessened, moderation is key, especially for those with heart disease or allergies, and preparation matters (avoid excessive butter/cheese).

Is it safe to eat eggs in the US now?

Today, a lot fewer egg-laying hens have this problem than during the 1980s and 1990s, so eggs are safer. But some eggs are still contaminated with Salmonella.

How safe is it to buy eggs right now?

In general, the risk of salmonella in eggs is estimated to be about 1 in 20000 eggs for conventional eggs. Some studies suggest that pasture-raised eggs may have a slightly lower risk, but specific odds can be difficult to quantify and may not be universally applicable.

Are eggs now bad for you?

Most healthy people can eat up to seven eggs a week without increasing their risk of heart disease. Some studies have shown that this level of egg consumption might even help prevent certain types of stroke and a serious eye condition called macular degeneration that can lead to blindness.

What happened to egg prices in 2023 and 2024?

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, egg prices in December 2024 were 36.8 percent higher than in December 2023 (though still below the prices in January 2023). They're only expected to increase: The USDA predicts egg prices will go up by 20.3 percent in 2025.

Eggs Every Day? What Doctors Think

Why are eggs $4 a dozen right now?

Eggs are around $4 a dozen (or more) primarily due to the ongoing H5N1 bird flu (avian influenza) outbreaks, which devastate hen flocks, significantly reducing supply while consumer demand stays high, creating a classic supply/demand price increase, compounded by general inflation and challenges rebuilding flocks. 

How to tell if eggs are bad?

To tell if eggs are bad, use the float test: fresh eggs sink, older ones stand on end, and bad ones float (discard floating ones). The most reliable method is the sniff test after cracking: if it smells sulfuric or "off," toss it; if it looks discolored (green/iridescent), discard it.
 

Should you avoid eggs right now?

All poultry products for public consumption are inspected for signs of disease both before and after slaughter. The "inspected for wholesomeness by the U.S. Department of Agriculture" seal ensures the poultry is free from visible signs of disease. prepared and cooked poultry and eggs are safe to eat.

Did the FDA say eggs are unhealthy?

That's right: the FDA officially agrees that eggs are a healthy, nutrient-dense food!

What 9 states are recalling eggs?

In June 2025, August Egg Company recalled over 1.7 million eggs sold in Arizona, California, Illinois, Indiana, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Washington, and Wyoming due to a Salmonella outbreak, affecting various brands sold at retailers like Walmart, with consumers advised to throw them out or return them. Another recall followed in August 2025 involving Country Eggs in California and Nevada, and later in October 2025, Black Sheep Egg Company had products linked to Arkansas, Missouri, and Texas, also potentially repackaged for other states.
 

When should you not purchase eggs?

Once a carton has passed its best by date, or 45 days from being processed, those eggs are considered expired and we're unable to guarantee any safety or results from consuming them.

What kills Salmonella in eggs?

While egg farmers supply a safe, clean, fresh product, it is possible for eggs to become contaminated by the food poisoning bacteria Salmonella. The good news is Salmonella is killed instantly at 74oC. So even if you are unlucky enough to get an egg with bacteria on it, the food will become safe by cooking it properly.

What's going on with eggs in the US?

During the past two years the U.S. egg market has faced extreme volatility due to recurring outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). According to USDA reports, more than 160 million birds have been culled since 2022, with table-egg-laying hens making up most of the losses.

Is it safe to buy eggs from a farm?

Yes, farm fresh eggs are generally safe to eat, often more nutritious, and can be safer from Salmonella if unwashed due to their natural protective coating (bloom), but they require careful handling like all eggs to prevent contamination; proper cooking and knowing your source are key to safety.
 

Is 2 eggs a day too much cholesterol?

For most healthy people, 2 eggs a day is generally fine and not considered too much cholesterol, as dietary cholesterol has less impact on blood cholesterol than saturated fat, and eggs offer good nutrients; however, individuals with existing heart disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol should consult a doctor, and it's best to pair eggs with healthy foods and use healthy cooking methods to keep saturated fat low. 

Why are white eggs cheaper?

As it turns out, the color of an egg's shell is determined by the breed of chicken that lays it. Brown eggs often cost more than white ones because they're usually laid by a larger breed of hen that requires more food, which makes the eggs more expensive for farmers to produce.

What do cardiologists say about eating eggs?

Cardiologists generally agree that for most healthy adults, up to one egg per day is fine as part of a heart-healthy diet, but those with heart disease or diabetes should limit yolks to under four per week; the key is moderation and what you eat with the eggs, as unhealthy additions like bacon and butter negate benefits, while pairing with vegetables and healthy fats is best, says University Hospitals and WakeMed. The American Heart Association confirms eggs can fit into a healthy diet, with the yolk containing most nutrients, notes Harvard Health.
 

What kills bird flu in eggs?

Cooking poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses, including avian influenza A viruses. People should separate uncooked (raw) poultry from cooked foods and foods that won't be cooked. Cook all poultry and poultry products (including eggs) all the way before eating.

What to do if I ate a bad egg?

If you ate a rotten egg, stay hydrated and watch for symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, fever, or vomiting, as you may get food poisoning (Salmonella). Sip water or broth, rest, and contact a doctor if symptoms are severe, you have a weakened immune system, are elderly, or a young child, especially with high fever or dehydration signs like dizziness or little urine. Most cases resolve in days, but medical help is crucial for severe illness. 

Is the egg float test accurate?

The egg float test is partially accurate: it reliably indicates an egg's age by measuring the size of its internal air cell, but it doesn't always signal spoilage; a floating egg is old and less fresh (better for baking), while a sinking egg is fresh, but a rotten egg might still sink, so the reliable method is always the sniff test (cracking it into a separate bowl) for true spoilage.
 

What are the signs of Salmonella in eggs?

Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting 12 to 72 hours after infection. Symptoms usually last 4 to 7 days and most people get better without treatment. However, in some people, the diarrhea may be so severe that they need to be hospitalized.

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