Do cage free egg hens really roam free outdoors? Challenging 10 egg myths

Credit: Egg Producers Federation of New Zealand
Credit: Egg Producers Federation of New Zealand

In this article, we’ll crack open the top 10 egg health myths we thought were true but aren’t, separating fact from fiction so you can enjoy your eggs without worry.

[Myth: Cage-free hens are roaming the outdoors freely]

While cage-free hens are treated more humanely than those in conventional egg production, as they aren’t confined to battery cages, they still typically live indoors for most of their lives. The conditions of cage-free farms vary greatly; some provide enough space for natural enrichment behaviors, while others squeeze lots of birds into a small, windowless indoor space with artificial lighting.

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[Myth: The float test is a fool proof safety precaution]

While the float test does not reveal egg safety, it will tell you how recently an egg was laid. Eggs that sink were laid sometime in the past 3 weeks, while floating eggs are 3 weeks old or older.

[Myth: All eggs have to be refrigerated]

While refrigeration for all eggs isn’t completely necessary, it does help them last longer. Unwashed eggs are only good for about two weeks at room temperature but can last up to three months or more in a refrigerator, per Purina Mills.

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