Sometimes when you crack open an egg, you might notice a small red or dark spot in the yolk or egg white. This can look alarming, but in most cases it is completely harmless.
What Is the Red Spot?
The red spot is called a blood spot. It forms when a tiny blood vessel in the hen’s ovary or oviduct breaks during the egg-forming process. A small drop of blood then becomes trapped inside the egg before the shell forms.
Is It Safe to Eat?
✅ Yes, the egg is usually safe to eat.
Blood spots do not mean the egg is fertilized and they are not a sign that the egg is spoiled. They simply occur naturally during egg formation.
Many people choose to:
Remove the spot with a spoon before cooking
Or cook the egg normally, since it is harmless
Why Don’t We See Them Often?
In commercial egg production, eggs are inspected with bright lights (a process called candling) to detect imperfections. Most eggs with visible spots are removed before reaching stores, which is why they are relatively rare.
When Should You Throw the Egg Away?
You should discard the egg if you notice:
A strong unpleasant smell
Pink, green, or iridescent egg whites
A strange or slimy texture
These signs may indicate bacterial contamination or spoilage.