The Truth About Those Red Spots in Your Eggs: Are They Safe to Eat?

  • When Should You Discard an Egg?Focus on actual signs of spoilage, not just natural pigments:
    • Unpleasant, sulfurous odor (raw or cooked)
    • Unusually runny or thin egg white
    • A pink, green, or iridescent sheen in the white or yolk (indicating bacterial growth)
    • Eggs that are cracked or have been stored improperly
    When in doubt, perform the float test: place the egg in a bowl of water. Fresh eggs sink; old eggs float due to a larger air cell. Floating eggs should be discarded.The Bottom LineThose little red spots are a harmless, natural imperfection—not a sign of an embryo, disease, or spoilage. They are a reminder that eggs come from living animals, and minor variations are part of nature’s process.So next time you encounter one, don’t let it ruffle your feathers. Scoop it out if it bothers you, or simply whisk it in—it will disappear during cooking. By understanding what these spots really are, we can reduce food waste and enjoy our eggs with confidence and clarity.