Research & Funding
The Clean Aussie Egg
The importance of food safety and environmental security is taken very seriously by the Australian egg industry. Our strict quarantine laws help to ensure that contaminants from other countries never reach our shores. As a result, Australian consumers can enjoy Australian eggs and have great confidence that they are eating a food, not only rich in vitamins and minerals, but one that is second to none for food safety quality.
Contrary to popular belief, the Australian egg industry does not, and has never used hormones in the production of eggs. The only hormones found in hens are the ones that their bodies naturally produce.
Antibiotics are used very rarely by the egg industry and only under strict veterinary advice. All eggs from birds that are treated with antibiotics are removed from the food chain and destroyed.
The Australian egg industry maintains high standards that minimise bacterial contamination of eggs. In addition, eggs naturally have their own defence mechanisms that help keep them clean and safe to eat. However, as with all raw animal foods, remember to follow everyday safety practices, including:
- washing hands, utensils and counter-tops after preparation to avoid cross contamination
- storing eggs in the refrigerator and using within the use-by-date for optimum quality
- buying shell eggs that are clean and unbroken.
Please contact jacqueline@aecl.org for more information.
