We have learned to be SO careful with eggs throughout the years, and trepidation has even turned some people right off these protein-packed eats.
However, we have some good news today, courtesy of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) which has just changed its advice about eating eggs.
After conducting a study into egg safety, an expert group found that the presence of salmonella – a bacterial disease – in UK eggs has been dramatically reduced by the British Lion scheme. The risk of contracting the illness – which typically causes cramping, vomiting, diarrhoea and other symptoms – is now very low.
The findings have resulted in an important revision to the FSA’s recommendations regarding egg consumption. Now infants, children, pregnant women and elderly people can safely eat raw or lightly-cooked eggs produced under the British Lion scheme.
If you’re not yet in the know, the British Lion scheme ensures that only quality approved products enter the market to be consumed. These products are identifiable by the distinctive lion symbol.
Impressively, more than 90 per cent of UK eggs are now produced under this scheme.
There are still some important rules to remember when indulging in a raw or lightly-cooked British Lion-approved egg:
- Store the eggs safely in a cool, dry place such as the fridge;
- Follow good hygiene practices in the kitchen – avoid cross-contamination; clean your work surfaces, dishes and utensils; make sure you wash your hands before and after handling your food;
- Always observe ‘best before’ dates.
The statement, issued by the FSA, clarified: “The revised advice does not apply to severely immunocompromised individuals, who require medically supervised diets prescribed by health professionals, and is only for chicken eggs produced under the British Lion scheme.”
For more information, check out this link.
