Egg Glossary

Following is a short glossary of key terms associated with eggs and the egg-laying industry:

albumen

The egg white. Provides protein, water, and protection for the egg embryo.

blood spot

Also known as the meat spot. A blood spot, when present, is entirely natural and harmless.

chalaza (or chalazae)

The chalaza (or chalazae) is a white rope-like structure that is sometimes apparent in the egg white. It helps suspend the egg yolk within the egg shell. It is harmless and does not indicate a defect or spoilage.

determinate layer

A hen that lays only a determinate number of eggs and will not replace eggs removed from the nest.

indeterminate layer

A hen that lays an indeterminate number of eggs and will replace eggs removed from the nest.

oology

The scientific study of eggs.

oviduct

Part of the hen's reproductive tract. A tube, in the upper-part of which the egg is fertilized, with the other parts of the egg (the shell and its contents) formed as the egg descends through the oviduct.

Salmonella enteritidis

A bacterium present in the intestinal tracts of many animals. A primary cause of food poisoning and food-borne illness. Does not grow below 40-degrees Fahrenheit and is destroyed by cooking.

yolk

A spherical yellow-orange structure at the center of an egg, separated from the egg white by a membrane. Provides nutrients to the egg embryo while it is developing.

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