When it comes to eggs, they are often considered a superfood rich in protein and other essential nutrients. And eggs are helpful in many ways, from weight loss to increasing metabolism. And for those unaware, protein is the building block of the human body, helping to build, repair and maintain tissues. It forms the foundation of muscles, skin, hair, and even the enzymes and hormones that control major bodily functions. It acts like fuel that keeps you active and charged throughout the day. And thanks to e-commerce sites, eggs are now available at a click. However, food regulator Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has raised a growing concern, as it has received several complaints over poor quality eggs being sold through e-commerce sites. According to a PTI report, FSSAI has sought clarification from quick-commerce player Blinkit regarding consumer complaints about the sale of poor quality eggs on its platform.

what was the problem

Many consumers have complained about the foul smell and rubbery texture of the eggs, he said, adding that e-commerce companies are also responsible for the quality of products sold on their platforms.

What did FSSAI ask for?

According to PTI, FSSAI has taken ‘suo motu cognizance’ of customer complaints on social media platforms and on Friday wrote to Blink Commerce Pvt Ltd directing it to send a “comprehensive ATR (action taken report)” regarding these complaints within a week. In an advisory dated December 3, 2024, FSSAI had said, “Considering the growth of e-commerce in the food sector, compliance by e-commerce food business operators becomes important to ensure the safety, quality and authenticity of food products sold online.“Any product claim made on an e-commerce platform should be completely aligned with the information on the physical label of the product,” it said.

what’s more?

E-commerce FBOs (Food Business Operators) must have mechanisms in place to ensure that products listed on their platforms are in compliance with the FSS (Labeling and Display) Regulations, 2020. They should not list any food business operator (seller) on their platform without displaying their valid FSSAI license or registration.

How to maintain freshness of eggs?

According to FSSAI, eggs retain their freshness for 10-12 days after laying at room temperature (28±2°C), but at higher temperatures the shelf life will be reduced. The important factor in maintaining freshness of eggs is mainly temperature while humidity also affects it to some extent.It also says that when storing eggs in the refrigerator, placing them in designated shelves or egg cartons is the best way to maintain their freshness.To maintain egg freshness and performance, buy eggs from stores that keep them at cool temperatures or from stores that store them in well-ventilated covered areas that maintain ambient temperature.Consumers should strictly avoid handling eggs roughly and leaving them in hot vehicles or places where temperatures are extremely high. Keep the eggs in the refrigerator when you get home.

How to check egg quality at home

According to FSSAI YouTube video, one can easily test good quality eggs at home. And to do this, all you have to do is take a container filled with water, dip an egg in the container. Now observe the condition of the egg. If the egg is fresh then it will be placed at the bottom according to its width. If the egg is a little old, it will be placed on one end with the bottom down. And if the egg is rotten it will float on the surface. The video further explains that as the age of the egg increases, the air sac inside it becomes larger as water is lost and replaced with air. Thus, an old egg floats.

Importance of eggs in diet

According to experts, eating one egg daily can provide your body with 75-76 calories, 7-8 grams of protein, 5 grams of fat and 1.6 grams of saturated fat along with a lot of nutrients that not only help in building muscles and boosting immunity but also help in the regeneration of cells and tissues. According to experts, with more than 6 grams of protein per egg, it is the perfect choice to meet almost half of the recommended dietary intake for children and almost one-third of the recommended dietary intake for older children.

3 simple ways to enjoy eggs

Masala Egg Bhurji: This is one of the classic egg preparations, where fried eggs are cooked with onions, tomatoes, chillies and basic Indian spices. It is served with toast or plain paratha.Veggie Omelette: It is a fluffy omelette stuffed with onions, capsicum, tomatoes and coriander and cooked in ghee, butter or oil and makes a nutritious and filling meal which is usually served with toast.Boiled eggs with spices: Most gym goers enjoy it when chopped boiled eggs are topped with chaat masala, black pepper, green chillies, coriander leaves and lemon to make a quick protein-packed plate.