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When you crack open a fresh egg, you may notice a thin, clear coating on the surface of the eggshell. This coating is known as the "bloom" or "cuticle," and it is produced by the hen to protect the egg from bacteria and other contaminants. In this article, we will explore the purpose of the bloom and how it helps to keep eggs fresh.
The bloom is a natural barrier that is produced by the hen's body as the egg is being formed. It is made up of a combination of proteins, oils, and other natural compounds that are secreted by the hen's reproductive tract. The bloom is applied to the eggshell as the egg is being laid and forms a protective layer that covers the entire surface of the egg.
The bloom helps to protect the egg in several ways. First, it creates a barrier that prevents bacteria and other contaminants from entering the egg. This helps to keep the egg fresh and reduces the risk of food-borne illness. Second, the bloom helps to prevent the egg from losing moisture. The eggshell is porous, which means that the egg can lose moisture through the shell. The bloom helps to reduce this moisture loss, which helps to keep the egg fresh for longer.
It's worth noting that the bloom can be removed easily if the egg is washed or cleaned. It's a natural coating and once it's removed, it can't be replaced. This is why it's important to handle eggs with care and not to wash them before storing. Eggs that are washed are usually treated with a mineral oil to replace the bloom, but this coating is not as effective as the natural bloom.
In summary, a coating bloom, also known as the cuticle, is a thin, clear coating on the surface of a chicken egg. It is produced by the hen to protect the egg from bacteria and other contaminants. The bloom is made up of a combination of proteins, oils, and other natural compounds.