Why Russians still struggle with egg safety despite stricter rules

Russian consumers still know little about choosing eggs safely, despite stricter regulations in recent years. While Rospotrebnadzor tightened Salmonella testing for poultry farms in 2023, public education on egg safety remains weak. Many shoppers overlook key details like category markings or proper storage times when buying eggs.

Eggs in Russia are categorised by weight, ranging from Grade 3 (35 grams) to premium (75 grams). They also carry labels indicating shelf life: 'D' for consumption within a week and 'C' for standard storage. Properly stored eggs last up to 25 days at temperatures no higher than +20°C.

The shell's condition matters more than its colour—it should be clean and free of cracks. Duck and goose eggs, though richer in calories, are mostly used in baking rather than daily cooking. A typical chicken egg contains 78 calories, 6.5 grams of protein, and 5.2 grams of fat, along with essential micronutrients. Health risks from eggs include Salmonella and Listeria, which can be avoided by cooking them thoroughly. Raw or soft-boiled eggs pose the highest danger. Nutritionists advise healthy adults to eat no more than 1–2 eggs, 3–4 times a week, with breaks in between.

Despite regulatory improvements, consumer knowledge about egg safety in Russia has grown slowly. Without targeted public health campaigns, many still miss important details on labelling, storage, and cooking. Following these guidelines helps reduce risks while keeping eggs a nutritious part of the diet.