DOH warns vs consumption of frozen eggs
The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning against the purchase and consumption of frozen eggs as it can pose a health risk.
Frozen eggs can be a source of contamination, the DOH said.
With this, it may “eventually cause food poisoning since raw foods are suitable for the growth of Salmonella bacterium and Escherichia coli (abbreviated as E. coli),” the DOH said in a statement on Monday, Jan. 30.
“These bacteria are known to cause infection, diarrhea (which can be severe and bloody), stomach pains, fever, nausea and vomiting,” it added.
The DOH also reminded consumers to “carefully inspect” the eggs before purchasing.
“When buying eggs, ensure to examine the item--make sure it is clean, there are no visible cracks, no drooping egg whites, and no foul or awful smell,” it said.
“Finally, ensure to thoroughly cook the eggs before serving for consumption,” it added.
The public should also observe the right food handling practices to prevent food contamination, the DOH said.
“In order to ensure food safety and prevent the possibility of food poisoning, the DOH recommends compliance with personal hygiene and sanitary food handling which involve keeping food preparation clean, separating raw and cooked foods, cooking foods thoroughly, keeping food at safe temperatures, and using safe water and raw materials which are essential to prevent food contamination,” it said.
Consumers should also check the expiration of food items being sold to ensure safe consumption of these products.
The DOH issued this advisory as some Filipinos have resorted to purchasing frozen eggs amid an increase in the prices of eggs.
The price of medium-sized eggs now reached P9 per piece, based on the recent monitoring of the Department of Agriculture. Last month, eggs only cost around P6.90.