European chicks are all vaccinated for diseases, this greatly reduces any outbreaks in those countries and the need not to refrigerate them. I leave our family eggs in an old fridge that doesn't get below 60 degrees, and they've been perfect for a couple of months or longer. I wash just before use. The key being not to wash off the "bloom" that's on them when laid.
Foreign countries do thing allot different than America does. Things they do would make us sick because are bodies are not use to it. Thats what I've heard anyway
Let me piggy back your question coach - how long will an egg stay edible without being refrigerated? Is once a day often enough to collect eggs, or should you do it more often?
It depends on how many feet are rustling through the nest box. Sometimes the eggs get broken by being jostled around. Or by 2 hens trying to lay in the same box, at the same time. Crack and splat!
Rachelle & her funny girls
I share the link to that article every time I see this question. Personally, I put my hens' eggs in the refrigerator when I collect them. That keeps them as fresh as possible.
Eggs will stay fresh longer if not washed or refrigerated when you take them from the hen. There is a protective coating from the mother when they are laid that allows them to stay fresh without refrigeration. When they are washed this is removed and they need to be refrigerated from this point on. However, not washing them and leaving them at room temp on the kitchen counter keeps them good the longest. I lived all summer on a farm where we practiced this technique with great results. In south Georgia, not "another country" lol. Also, as long as eggs are out of direct sunlight, they will be fine if not picked up for a couple days. Always float them before eating to make sure they are still good. Sinkers are winners. Floaters are bad. They will stay fresh on the counter, unwashed, for at least 3-4 weeks. I've seen many stay fresh longer. Only down side to leaving them outside a couple extra days is the possible attraction of snakes or other animals that will eat them and/or harm the chickens. Then they also know where to go next time to find more eggs. Hope this helps clear up the confusion.
I always threw an egg away if it was nasty. If the hen has diarrhea, something might be wrong. I had enough hens it did not really matter. But even with two or three hens the same applies.
