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Why Do Eggs Have White Strings?

Published in Food Science 2 mins read

Those white, stringy things you sometimes find in eggs are called chalazae. They're actually quite fascinating, playing an important role in keeping the yolk centered within the egg.

What are Chalazae?

Chalazae are made of albumen, the thick, white part of the egg. They act like tiny ropes, anchoring the yolk to the center of the egg. This prevents the yolk from bumping around and getting damaged, ensuring a healthy developing chick if the egg is fertilized.

Why Do Some Eggs Have More Chalazae?

The number of chalazae in an egg can vary, but you'll usually find two, one on either side of the yolk. You might notice more prominent chalazae in larger eggs, as they need more support to keep the yolk centered.

Are Chalazae Harmful?

No, chalazae are perfectly safe to eat. They're just a natural part of the egg. If you're bothered by their appearance, you can easily remove them before cooking or eating the egg.

Conclusion

Next time you see those white strings in your egg, remember they're not a sign of anything wrong. They're just a clever design feature that helps keep the yolk safe and sound.

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