What are the categories of eggs and how to choose them

Edible chicken eggs in accordance with GOST 31654-2012 “Eggs for food. Specifications” depending on their mass are divided into five categories: the highest, selective, first, second and third. The weight of one egg of the highest category is from 75 g and above; selective category from 65 g to 74.9 g; 1 category - from 55-64.9; 2 categories - from 45 to 54.9 g; 3 categories - from 35 to 44.9 g.

Eggs are also divided into "dietary" and "table".

"Dietary" eggs are stored at temperatures from 0 ° C to 20 ° C, such eggs immediately after collection go to the counter and are sold only within 7 days. These eggs are marked with a red letter (D).

"Table" eggs, depending on the conditions, have a different shelf life, so at a temperature of 0 ° C to 20 ° C and a relative humidity of 85% - 88% is no more than 25 days, at a temperature of minus 2 ° C to 0 ° C and relative humidity of 85% to 88% eggs are stored for no more than 90 days. These eggs are marked with a blue letter (C). The expiration date according to GOST 31654-2012 is set by the manufacturer, indicating the storage conditions.

For each packaging unit of a shipping container, a label is applied to its two end walls with a marking that characterizes the product: name and location of the manufacturer (legal address); manufacturer's trademark (if any), product name, type, category; sorting date; expiration date and storage conditions; designation of this standard; conformity information.

Eggs and egg products intended for processing and sale in order to determine their suitability for use for food purposes in accordance with the Order of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Russian Federation No. 794 of November 24, 2021 “On approval of the Veterinary Rules for the appointment and conduct of veterinary and sanitary examination of eggs of agricultural birds and egg products, intended for processing and sale”, are subject to veterinary and sanitary examination. When buying eggs, you need to pay attention to their appearance, they should be even, smooth, have the correct shape and uniform color, in addition, there should be no damage, blood marks, feathers and bird droppings on the shell. Upon receipt on the counter, a batch of eggs must have veterinary and accompanying documents, this proves the safety and quality of the products supplied for sale.