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How does Salmonella infect eggs?

Salmonella are found in the intestinal tracts of animals, birds, reptiles, insects and humans. Salmonella may be found on the outside of the egg shell before the egg is washed, or it may be found inside the egg if the hen was infected prior to egg laying.

Proper cooking and handling of eggs is important to greatly reduce the risk of foodborne illness.  Cook eggs thoroughly until the white and the yolk is firm.  See “Cooking Eggs to the right temperature,” for more details.