FAQs on Food Safety

This past summer’s massive recall of half a billion shell eggs no doubt encouraged many consumers to think about making the big switch to pasteurized eggs. According to Davidson’s Safest Choice Pasteurized Shell Eggs, using pasteurized eggs will  “eliminate the risk of foodborne illness and cross-contamination of your kitchen.” Pasteurized eggs are heated to a high enough temperature to kill pathogens but not high enough to cook the eggs. Davidson’s Safest Choice Pasteurized Shell Eggs describe the company’s pasteurization method as a combination of time and temperature; the eggs are moved around in a giant warm bath for almost an hour, thereby killing any bacteria and viruses that are present. 

So should you switch to pasteurized eggs? Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages as well as another important question—will pasteurized eggs spoil the taste of your favorite breakfast and brunch entrées?