I Cracked an Egg and Found a Red Spot in the Yolk. Should I Throw It Away?
Cracking open an egg and finding a red spot in the yolk can be surprising, but in most cases, there’s no need to worry.
Here’s what it means—and whether it’s safe to eat.
What Is the Red Spot?
The red spot is usually a blood spot, caused by a tiny blood vessel breaking during the egg’s formation inside the hen.
Less commonly, it may be a meat spot, which is a small piece of tissue from the hen’s reproductive tract. Despite the name, it’s not meat in the way most people think of it.
Both are natural occurrences and are not a sign that the egg was fertilized.
Is It Safe to Eat?
Yes.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), eggs with blood spots are safe to eat as long as the egg is otherwise fresh and properly cooked.
If the spot bothers you, simply remove it with the tip of a clean knife or spoon before cooking.
Should You Throw Away the Egg?
Usually, no.
A blood spot alone isn’t a reason to discard the egg.
However, you should throw the egg away if you notice any of the following:
- A foul or sulfur-like odor
- An unusual green, pink, or black discoloration
- A cracked shell that appears contaminated
- Signs of spoilage, such as mold
If the egg smells normal and looks otherwise fresh, it’s generally safe to use.
