It is not salmonella: a biologist asks us never to eat an egg if its white has this peculiar color

“Never eat an egg with a white that is this colour (reddish) or another suspicious colour (greenish). These eggs are contaminated with a bacteria that is not salmonella, but rather pseudomonas," a biologist writes on TikTok.

This bacteria can also “cause infections.” Its effect on eggs, and why it’s so striking, is because it produces “different coloured pigments.”

The biologist warns that these pigments, under ultraviolet light, would attract attention and appear intensely coloured. Above all, “don’t confuse it with a small red spot; that’s blood. These are small blood vessel ruptures, and therefore the egg can be eaten,” he explains.

Pseudomonas contamination in eggs

• White colour: An egg with a reddish or green white can be an indicator of contamination with Pseudomonas, a bacteria that can cause respiratory, dermatological, urinary infections or even pneumonia.
• “Detonating” eggs: In hatcheries, eggs are occasionally found that burst due to the accumulation of gas produced by the bacteria.
• Health Hazard: Pseudomonas contamination can cause serious infections, especially in people who are immunocompromised, have diabetes, or cystic fibrosis. 
• Antibiotic resistance: Some strains of pseudomonas, such as aeruginosa, are resistant to many antibiotics, making infections difficult to treat.
• Prevention: Colour and smell can give you clues. If in doubt, throw them away.

Related stories

Celebrations

Why Memorial Day is more than just a long weekend

Travel

Take note: New carry-on luggage restrictions for US airline passengers

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.