Scientists have found a way to disinfect eggs that does not harm the embryos

A new way to disinfect eggs was proposed by scientists at the University of Texas ( usa ). In the report of scientists in the journal Poultry Science, it is indicated that at the moment fumigation with formaldehyde is used to disinfect hatching eggs, which carries some disadvantages. In particular, this method does not remove contamination from the eggs, and harmful bacteria can remain in them. In addition, through the pores in the shell, this chemical can enter the inside of the egg and harm the embryos.

As an alternative, scientists have developed another method of disinfection: using peroxide and ultraviolet light. The main difference is that when using this method, there is no problem with washing eggs, the scientists noted. First, the egg is sprayed with peroxide in a special chamber. After that, the egg is irradiated with ultraviolet light. The result is a reaction that destroys the structures of any microorganisms present. At the same time, unlike formaldehyde, ultraviolet light is safe for embryos and will not affect their development.

Testing the method in practice has already shown that the number of aerobic bacteria and salmonella pathogens on the shell has decreased, scientists say. More chicks hatched from the processed eggs, and in the future, fewer diseases and deaths were observed among the young.