Egg Hygiene

Question 1

what is the main zoonoses in eggs

Answer 1

Salmonella

Question 2

What are the main subtypes of salmonella in egg legislation?

Answer 2

S. enteritidis
S. Typhimurium

Question 3

Legislation in egg production

Answer 3

Controls for eggs from salmonella infected flocks
Eggs and chick regulations 2009
Not intended for hobby hen keepers (<350 laying hens)

Question 4

Egg grading

Answer 4

EU legislation considers 2 classes - A and B

Question 5

Class A egg

Answer 5

Suitable for human consumption
Must not be washed before/after grading

Question 6

Class B egg

Answer 6

Unfit for human consumption
Must be treated/pasteurised
E.g. eggs from flock with S. enteritidis or typhimurium
E.g. damaged or unclean eggs

Question 7

What is included in an egg code?

Answer 7

Farm ID
Country of origin
Farming method
Quality standards - lion mark

Question 8

Lion Mark

Answer 8

British Lion quality code of practice
Symbolises eggs are from vaccinated pullets
Only used by subscribers to BEIC

Question 9

Salmonella national control plan

Answer 9

Eggs can’t be used for direct human consumption unless they are from flock subject to national salmonella control plan
Eggs must be pasteurised if from +ve flock

Question 10

Prevention of salmonella in flocks

Answer 10

Vaccinations
Regular sampling
Restockw with -ve birds
Decontaminated feed and water
Pest control programme
Restrict visitors to farm