The 411 - Why don't people in Sweden refrigerate eggs?

In Sweden and some other European countries, it is common practice not to refrigerate eggs, unlike in many other parts of the world, especially the United States. The reason for this difference lies in how eggs are processed and regulated in different regions.

In the United States, eggs are typically washed and sanitized before they are sold to consumers. This washing process removes the natural protective coating on the eggshell called the cuticle, which can make the eggs more susceptible to contamination. To compensate for this, U.S. regulations require that washed eggs be refrigerated to inhibit the growth of bacteria and maintain freshness.

In contrast, in many European countries, including Sweden, eggs are not washed before they reach the consumer. Instead, they are kept in their natural state with the cuticle intact. This protective layer helps keep out bacteria and other contaminants. As a result, eggs in European countries can be stored at room temperature without posing a significant risk of contamination.

It's important to note that the choice to refrigerate or not to refrigerate eggs can vary from one country to another and is based on different food safety regulations and practices. If you're in a region where eggs are sold unrefrigerated, it's generally safe to store them at room temperature. However, if you're in a place where eggs are sold washed and refrigerated, it's best to follow local guidelines for egg storage to ensure food safety.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model