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Eggs are a staple food enjoyed by many, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks they can pose. Bacterial contamination is one such concern, as eggs can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Aside from eggs not being great for the environment or the animals exploited for their use, eggs can seriously affect human health.
1. Salmonellosis
Source: TIME/Youtube
Salmonellosis is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella bacteria. Eggs can become contaminated with Salmonella through contact with infected chickens or their feces. When eggs are consumed raw or undercooked, the bacteria can cause salmonellosis in humans. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and vomiting. Infants, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to severe cases of salmonellosis.
In 2019, more than 200 million eggs were recalled after 22 cases of Salmonella popped up in the United States. The eggs were all linked to Rose Acre Farms in Indiana. The FDA reported that the eggs were distributed across the nation. Colorado, Florida, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia were all affected by the recall.
2. Campylobacteriosis
Source: FoodStandardsAgency/Youtube
Campylobacter bacteria can contaminate eggs if the chickens that laid them are infected. Consumption of raw or undercooked eggs contaminated with Campylobacter can result in campylobacteriosis. Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and occasionally nausea and vomiting. Most cases of campylobacteriosis are self-limiting, but in severe cases, medical attention may be required.
In 2020, a campylobacteriosis outbreak at a hotel in England was linked to chicken liver pate.
3. E. Coli Infection
Source: Washington Post/Youtube
Eggs can occasionally be a source of Escherichia coli (E. coli) contamination. This can occur when eggs come into contact with fecal matter during the laying process. Ingesting raw or undercooked eggs contaminated with E. coli can lead to an E. coli infection. Symptoms may include diarrhea (often bloody), abdominal cramps, and, in severe cases, kidney damage or failure. It’s important to note that E. coli outbreaks related to eggs are relatively rare.
In 2023, an E. coli outbreak in the U.K. was coupled with a Salmonella outbreak. A total of 25 people got sick from E. coli and one person died.
4. Listeriosis
Source: KSAT 12/Youtube
Listeria monocytogenes bacteria can contaminate eggs, especially if the eggshell is cracked or infected. Consuming raw or undercooked eggs contaminated with Listeria can result in listeriosis. Listeriosis primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, nausea, and, in severe cases, meningitis or blood infection. Listeriosis can be particularly dangerous for pregnant women, as it can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or serious illness in the newborn.
5. Staphylococcal Food Poisoning
Source: News 8 Wroc/Youtube
Staphylococcus aureus bacteria can contaminate eggs if they are handled by individuals with Staphylococcus aureus skin infections or if they come into contact with contaminated surfaces. Consuming eggs contaminated with Staphylococcus aureus can cause staphylococcal food poisoning. Symptoms typically appear rapidly and include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and, in some cases, diarrhea. The toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus are responsible for the illness, rather than the bacteria itself.
In one case, a staphylococcal contamination of hard-boiled eggs resulted in food poisoning for 300 children. They had been participating in an Easter egg hunt.
6. Yersiniosis
Yersinia bacteria, such as Yersinia enterocolitica or Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, can contaminate eggs from infected animals or contaminated environments. Ingesting raw or undercooked eggs contaminated with Yersinia can lead to yersiniosis. Symptoms may include fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In some cases, yersiniosis can mimic appendicitis.
In 2022, Yersinia figures increased from 744 to 1,015 in Spain.
7. Clostridium Perfringens Food Poisoning
Source: WCNC/Youtube
Clostridium Perfringens bacteria can contaminate eggs if they are not stored or cooked at proper temperatures. Consumption of eggs contaminated with Clostridium perfringens can result in food poisoning. Symptoms typically include abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Clostridium perfringens food poisoning is usually self-limiting and resolves within 24-48 hours.
8. Vibrio Infections
While rare, certain species of Vibrio bacteria, such as Vibrio parahaemolyticus, can contaminate eggs, particularly in coastal regions or through cross-contamination. Ingesting raw or undercooked eggs contaminated with Vibrio bacteria can lead to gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms may include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Most Vibrio infections are mild and self-limiting.
In addition to bacterial contamination, eggs are also one of the most common food allergens. Egg allergies can cause adverse reactions ranging from mild symptoms to much worse ones. This allergy is particularly high in children and symptoms include:
- skin rashes
- hives
- nasal congestion
- digestive issues
- and vomiting
It is extremely rare, but egg allergy can sometimes cause anaphylaxis.
While eggs are a versatile food, it’s crucial to handle and cook them properly to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. Alternatively, one can avoid eggs altogether through the vegan diet. There are plenty of egg alternatives on the market.
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