I opened my egg carton one morning, and I paused. There was an egg that did not look right. The surface was covered in tiny bumps. I assumed maybe it was contaminated by insects, or maybe it spoiled. If you’ve looked at a bumpy eggshell, and you’re feeling both concerned and curious, you know the feeling.
How does a bumpy egg shell appear?
It’s possible that a bumpy egg shell may resemble very coarse sandpaper. Others will appear as bead-like bumps concentrated in specific locations. I have also seen egg shells that appeared to have irregularly distributed dry droplets.
Initially, I considered the possibility that a bumpy egg shell would resemble the eggs of insects, or possibly that it represented a type of contamination. However, it appears that a bumpy egg shell is quite common, particularly when you purchase farm fresh eggs or raise chickens. While it does appear to be unusual, it’s not as uncommon as initially perceived.
Calcium deposits are the true reason for a bumpy egg shell
Calcium deposits cause a bumpy egg shell. Nothing else. Parasites do not exist. No mysterious organisms exist. Only a quirk of the formation of the shell exists.
Inside the hen’s body, the eggshell forms in a location known as the shell gland. The calcium used to create the shell layer around the egg develops during this process. Based upon my experience, I believe the most effective method for understanding the development of a bumpy egg shell is similar to applying paint to a wall. Typically, the hen provides a uniform layer of calcium “paint” to create the eggshell. Occasionally, however, additional amounts of calcium develop in certain areas.
The outcome is the bumps.
These types of eggshells are referred to as “pimpled eggs,” which is more ominous-sounding than actuality. Essentially, these represent simply excessive calcium developing in raised areas on the shell. Another lesson I have learned the hard way is assuming the bumpiness of an eggshell results from contamination outside of the hen. It does not. The bumps occur while the egg remains within the hen, not after being deposited.
Possible other contributing factors
Although calcium deposits are responsible for virtually all instances of bumpy egg shells, several contributing factors may also help explain various shell abnormalities:
The age of the hen
Hens older than three years tend to produce abnormal eggs more frequently. The shell forming mechanism within their bodies tends to become less consistent with age, resulting in the potential for bumps or uneven surfaces on eggshells.
Disturbing stressors
Chickens tend to be relatively sensitive animals. Sudden noise levels, abrupt environmental changes, or the presence of predators can disrupt the production of eggs within the hen’s body. Based upon what I have observed, disturbances such as loud noises can result in a variety of unique and bizarre shapes and textures on eggshells.
Imbalanced diet
Consumption of too many calcium products or consumption of varying quantities of calcium products can upset the balance required for optimal egg production. As I mentioned earlier, you’d assume that more calcium would result in stronger eggs. However, this is not necessarily true. Balancing the amount of calcium consumed by your chicken(s) is essential. Believe me on this point, you do not want to over-correct when providing food for chickens.
Temporary health issues and/or gland disruptions
Occasionally, a hen may experience a temporary problem with her shell gland. Although this is generally minor and usually self-corrects shortly thereafter, the affected hen may occasionally produce irregular shaped eggs.
Can bumpy egg shells be consumed?
This was my greatest worry: can bumpy egg shelled eggs be safely consumed?
Yes, they generally are. As long as the egg remains unbroken and exhibits no unpleasant odors or visual abnormalities when broken open, then yes, they are safe to consume. The exterior bumps only affect the outer shell and not the interior contents of the egg. After conducting further research regarding these types of eggshells, I ate a couple myself, and to my surprise, they were indistinguishable from regular eggs.
However, regardless of whether the exterior is bumpy or otherwise irregularly textured, I still wash each egg prior to breaking it open, regardless of whether it’s bumpy, and maintain standard food safety practices, store refrigerated properly, cook thoroughly, etc.
In summary, a bumpy eggshell is distinct from spoiled or contaminated eggs. A bumpy eggshell is merely a structural anomaly, rather than a safety risk.
When should you be worried about your eggs?
Not all unusual looking eggs receive a free pass.
Slimy coating on the exterior, strong unpleasant odor emitted by the egg, soft leaking shell, all of these are indicators of potential problems with your egg. In addition, there is an occasional chance that external contamination could potentially occur, especially when handling or storing eggs improperly. When in doubt, discard the egg.
One thing I learned early on in researching this topic is to rely on your instincts here. If something about the egg looks or smells wrong to you, do not bother eating it.
Honestly, my first reaction to seeing a bumpy eggshell was mild revulsion. I almost threw it away right then and there. Once I researched this topic further though, I discovered how incredibly ordinary this phenomenon is.
Nowadays, I really never give it another second thought when I see one. At least for me, it’s just part of being familiarized with the quirks that come along with consuming natural food products, especially eggs which may not be over-processed or standardized.
Really, anytime you encounter a bumpy eggshell, don’t freak out either. Check it quickly. Use your best judgment. Then continue onward. Honestly, it’s just another aspect of nature doing its own thing.
