I came across this article on Parenting.com and I know that I alwasy wonder, just how safe the eggs are that we dye for Easter. I wanted to share with you so you don't have any upset tummies!
Eggs are everywhere this season, but are they safe for your tot to chow down on? Not hard-boiled ones that have been outside the fridge for more than two hours, says Sarah Krieger, R.D., a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. An eggu-cation:
What's the Best Way to Hard-Boil Eggs?
To cook eggs thoroughly and eliminate bacteria (salmonella is the biggest concern), cover them with at least an inch of water and bring to a gentle, rolling boil. Then turn off the heat and let the eggs stand, covered, for 15 minutes. Run cold water over them and refrigerate until you're ready to dye them.
Are Cracked Eggs Safe to Eat?
Throw out any raw eggs that are cracked in the carton, but eggs that crack during hard-boiling are safe to eat (don't hide them during an egg hunt, though, because they can pick up dirt and bacteria).
How Long Can I Keep Hard-Boiled Eggs?
Not as long as raw eggs. One week in the refrigerator is the max.
Are Egg Dyes Safe?
Yes, commercial egg dyes and liquid food colorings are food-safe. If you use other inks, paints, or glues on eggs, they should be for decoration only.
What if Some of the Egg White has Been Colored, Too?
Dyes may penetrate the shell and tint the egg. That's fine; the egg may have a slight vinegar taste, though.
Article By Patty Onderko, Parenting.com ORIGINAL 2010
