The US is facing a bird flu outbreak, causing egg shortages and price hikes. But are eggs safe to eat? Experts say the risk of contracting avian influenza from eggs is low, thanks to federal regulations requiring washed and sanitized eggs.
When an infected bird is found, the entire flock may be culled, removing contaminated eggs from the food supply. Additionally, cooking eggs thoroughly kills the virus, and pasteurized egg products are considered safe. Experts recommend good food-handling practices, such as washing hands before handling raw eggs, cleaning surfaces after use, and fully cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Dr. Meghan Davis notes that if people follow proper food safety measures, the risk is extremely low. She also warns against consuming raw cookie dough or cake batter, which can pose a risk of salmonella infection.
Despite these precautions, some experts remain cautious about the potential for human transmission through contaminated foods like unpasteurized milk and pet food. However, the majority of reported cases in the US have been linked to contact with sick animals.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/05/well/eggs-bird-flu.html