A new egg research laboratory will be established in the USA this year by the country’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), which will focus egg quality and microbiological safety.


ARS scientists will develop improved egg production and processing techniques that will reduce or eliminate microorganisms that can transmit disease to people or cause spoilage.


Researchers will also develop methods to prevent pathogens from infecting egg-laying poultry, and tests to detect infected flocks and contaminated eggs. American per capita consumption of eggs and egg products in 2003 was the equivalent of 254 eggs, an increase of 19 eggs per person from 1990. The lab will be located in Athens, Georgia.