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Eggs are a healthy, protein-rich, and nutrient-dense food. However, many believe that raw eggs contain more nutrients than boiled or cooked eggs. And we have also heard that eating uncooked eggs is a death trap. So you might get confused about the question, can you eat egg whites raw or not?
The raw egg yolks are safe to eat, and the egg whites are not. Because the yolk is the complete protein when the egg white works as a protector of the yolk. So, the egg white is a protective layer and traps harmful bacterial pathogens like Salmonella and other harmful intestinal bacteria.
However, there are several factors you have to consider when eating raw eggs. And this article will help you understand the factors better with all the safety measures.
Can You Eat Raw Egg Yolk?
In short, the answer is yes. Raw egg yolk can be consumed in small amounts and has not been linked to health risks. However, consuming raw egg yolk should only be done if it is part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Likely, the egg yolk contains fat, protein, cholesterol, and choline. Cholesterol is an essential nutrient that plays a role in maintaining the health of the brain and nervous system. Egg yolk also contains vitamin B12, vital for the immune system’s health.
The Mayo Clinic recommends consuming seven eggs per week in a healthy diet. Egg yolk is a good source of protein and can be consumed in moderation.
However, egg yolk contains cholesterol, fat, and choline, which are all important for maintaining a healthy heart and brain. In addition, boiling eggs can reduce the amount of cholesterol in the yolk.
Risks Of Eating Raw Egg Yolks
Raw egg yolk is one of the most nutritious foods on the planet. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and protein. The only downside to eating raw egg yolk is that it can contain Salmonella and other food-borne illness bacteria.
However, proper preparation techniques and cooking times will ensure that your meal is safe. Salmonella is a dangerous pathogen that can cause severe poisoning in humans and animals. Symptoms include diarrhea, dehydration, and lethargy.
Humans can also die from Salmonella poisoning if the infection is not treated or the patient has weakened immune systems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella can infect people even if they have not eaten or drank raw egg yolk. The bacteria is found in the feces of infected animals raised in close quarters with other animals. Eggs and Salmonella Eggshells can become contaminated with bacteria that cause salmonellosis.
The eggshell is where the egg’s embryo develops before it is transferred to an adult hen. The bacteria can also be found inside the egg when it is cracked.
The incubation period for Salmonella poisoning is usually 3-7 days after ingestion. Therefore, most cases of salmonellosis occur in children under the age of 5. Many patients are not reported to public health authorities because they are believed to be mild or self-limiting.
Reasons Why You Should Avoid Raw Egg Whites
Egg whites can cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylactic shock. Several symptoms are associated with this, including a drop in blood pressure and severe swelling in your throat and mouth. In addition, salmonella bacteria are at risk of entering the stomach by eating raw egg whites.
It can put you at risk of food poisoning. It is possible to get stomach ailments, vomiting, and even typhoid from eating egg whites because they are not easily digested.
Also, Biotin is a vitamin of the B group that the body cannot obtain from raw eggs. Biotin is bound to avidin, a protein present in egg whites. The combined avidin-biotin mixture is not absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.
Due to the breakdown of this mixture through heat, avidin and Biotin separate, and Biotin can then be absorbed separately by the digestive tract. Gastroenterologists say that eating raw eggs can lead to biotin deficiency in the body.
You understand why you can’t eat egg whites raw or shouldn’t eat them. However, even if there is a clean place to lay eggs, this risk does exist.
For this reason, it is better to wash eggs. Eating raw eggs, then, is somewhat less dangerous for health.
Is It Safe To Eat Raw Egg yolks In Dishes? (And How)
Yes! It is safe to use raw egg yolks in salad dressings, and many classic salad dressing recipes call for them. But we recommend you to eat raw egg yolk salad dressing as soon as possible when made with traditional salad dressing recipes.
The yolks and whites of raw eggs are best kept separated into desserts containing raw eggs, such as tiramisu and chocolate mousse. For raw desserts, an egg separator is a safer option. Use this method for baking goods. Once again, it’s best to refrigerate and eat within one day of making it.
You can make your own mayonnaise and aioli at home, but be careful. You should prepare only a small amount at a time, and to adjust the PH of the sauce to 4.2 or less, you should add vinegar or lemon juice. When not in use, it should be stored in the fridge and eaten within a day of making it. It’s too risky to leave homemade mayonnaise on the bench at room temperature.
To prepare raw egg dishes, you should always avoid using cracked or dirty eggs. It is essential to use clean eggs that have been refrigerated and are at their most fresh before their expiration date.
Conclusion
It is better not to eat raw egg yolks but half-baked, fried, or boiled. Cooking eggs does not destroy their nutritional value. However, there is a risk of various diseases from eating raw eggs. Boiled eggs are more nutritious than raw eggs and are more beneficial for your health as they are easier to digest.