Have you ever cracked open an egg and found a small red blood spot inside? If so, what was your reaction? Did you immediately throw it away, or did you simply continue cooking as if nothing had happened?

Many people are uncertain about whether eggs with blood spots are safe to eat. There is often confusion about why these spots appear, what they indicate, and whether consuming such eggs poses any health risks. If you have ever wondered about this, let’s break it all down for you.

What Causes Blood Spots in Eggs?

Blood spots inside eggs are a natural occurrence and are caused by the rupture of a tiny blood vessel in the hen’s reproductive system during egg formation. This minor rupture allows a small amount of blood to mix with the developing egg, creating the red spot that some people find unsettling. However, this does not mean the egg is fertilized or unsafe to eat—it is simply a cosmetic imperfection.

Egg producers use a process called candling, which involves shining a bright light through the eggshell to check for irregularities. Many eggs with blood spots are removed before they reach store shelves, but some still make it through due to the difficulty of detecting them in darker-shelled eggs.

Are Eggs With Blood Spots Safe to Eat?

The short answer is yes—eggs with blood spots are completely safe to eat as long as they are properly cooked. The presence of a blood spot does not mean the egg is contaminated or spoiled. If you come across one, you can simply remove the spot using the tip of a knife or a spoon before cooking. However, if the sight of it does not bother you, feel free to cook and eat the egg as usual.

What About Other Discolorations in Eggs?

In addition to blood spots, you might occasionally find small brown meat spots in egg whites. These are tiny pieces of reproductive tissue that became detached as the egg passed through the oviduct. Like blood spots, these are harmless and do not affect the egg’s flavor or nutritional value.

That being said, not all discolorations are safe. If an egg white appears pink, red, or green, it should be discarded immediately. These colors can indicate bacterial contamination, which could pose a health risk if consumed.

Should You Throw Away an Egg With a Blood Spot?

There is no reason to discard a perfectly good egg just because it contains a blood spot. These eggs are still fresh and nutritious. Some people prefer to remove the blood spot before cooking, while others mix it into their dish without giving it a second thought. Either option is fine, as long as the egg is fully cooked to eliminate any potential bacteria.

How to Avoid Eggs With Blood Spots

If you prefer to avoid eggs with blood spots altogether, consider purchasing eggs from brands that use advanced candling techniques to detect and remove them more effectively. Commercially produced eggs are carefully screened, but a few with blood spots still manage to slip through.

If you raise backyard chickens, you might encounter blood spots more frequently. This is because eggs from free-range and organic hens undergo less intensive screening. Additionally, factors such as stress, age, and diet can contribute to an increased likelihood of blood spots in eggs. Providing a balanced diet and minimizing stress can help reduce their occurrence.

The Final Verdict

While blood spots in eggs may look unappetizing, they are harmless and safe to eat when properly cooked. They do not affect the taste, texture, or nutritional value of the egg. If you find one, you can either remove the spot or cook the egg as usual—it’s entirely up to you.

However, if you notice an egg with a pink, red, or green-tinted egg white, do not take any chances—throw it away immediately, as this could indicate bacterial contamination.

The next time you crack open an egg and find a blood spot, don’t panic! Now that you understand why it happens and that it’s completely safe, you can make an informed decision on whether to remove it or cook it as is. Understanding the natural processes behind egg production helps prevent unnecessary food waste and allows you to enjoy your eggs with confidence.