salmonella and backyard eggs

[nyumbakuku]

There has been an outbreak of Salmonella in our area and we understand that CDC has tracked it to a commercial egg operation. However it has raised in my mind how I handle the eggs from my flock. I see so many contradictory pieces of advice: wash immediately and refrigerate; don't wash, don't refrigerate, wash and rub with oil, etc.

Is there any best practice that is being used successfully? I have not been washing until use but I do refrigerate. I have, to the best of my knowledge, had no problems. I give away a lot of eggs and my cartons are marked "wash well before cracking"

Anyone have a thought or recommendation?

thanks, K

 

[eggbert420]

As long as your chickens are not eating vegetables, lettuce etc.. grown in fecal matter you are at a low risk. My opinion, sure others will have more to say

 

[azygous]

One of the best things you can do for peace of mind is to gather random samples of poop and have them tested for pathogens. It's easy, and most labs will do it inexpensively.

Beyond that, hand washing and thorough cooking of eggs after washing the shells is plenty precaution to assure you don't get sick.