USDA Revises Shell Egg Regulations

WASHINGTON - Mar 17/06 - SNS -- The USDA is revising both the voluntary grading and shell egg inspection regulations.

The revisions will revise the definition of washed ungraded eggs to mean eggs that have been washed and that are either sized or unsized, but not segregated for quality. The revisions clarify and update the shell egg grading and inspection regulations and bring them in line with new technology and current production and processing practices.

The voluntary grading program for shell eggs authorized by the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, as amended, is offered to shell egg processors that apply for and pay for the service rendered. The program provides for the official certification of egg quality, quantity, size, temperature, and packaging.

Egg inspections are conducted by AMS under the Shell Egg Surveillance Program, as required by the Egg Products Inspection Act. The program ensures that eggs sold to consumers meet standards for consumer grade eggs and ensures that they are properly handled.