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Eggs are a staple in diets worldwide, known for their high nutritional value and versatility in cooking. However, their limited shelf life poses challenges for storage, transportation, and sale. Addressing this issue, the Central Avian Research Institute (CARI) has introduced a revolutionary egg spray that extends their shelf life to an impressive 90 days. Let’s explore this breakthrough innovation, its workings, and its potential impact.
What is CARI’s Egg Spray?
CARI, a leading research institute in poultry and avian sciences, has developed a specialized spray designed to preserve eggs for longer durations. The initiative aims to reduce egg spoilage, benefiting both farmers and consumers alike.
How Does the CARI’s Egg Spray Work?
Composition of the Spray
The egg spray is made from a combination of natural and safe preservatives that create a protective coating on the eggshell.
Application Process
The spray is evenly applied to clean, dry eggs, forming a thin barrier that protects against microbial contamination and moisture loss.
The Science Behind Extended Shelf Life Preventing Spoilage
The spray seals the pores of the eggshell, preventing the entry of bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which are common culprits of spoilage.
Protection Against Bacterial Growth
By creating an antimicrobial layer, the spray inhibits bacterial activity, keeping eggs fresh for up to 90 days without refrigeration.
Benefits of Using the Egg Spray Reduced Wastage
Farmers and retailers often face losses due to spoilage. The spray helps minimize these losses significantly.
Extended Storage Options
With the spray, eggs can be stored safely at room temperature, reducing dependency on refrigeration.
Economic Advantages
The extended shelf life enables better inventory management, ensuring a steady supply of fresh eggs to the market.
Cost of the Egg Spray
CARI has priced the spray to make it accessible for both small-scale and commercial poultry farmers. A single bottle of the spray, capable of coating hundreds of eggs, costs approximately ₹500–₹700, depending on the volume.
Applications in the Food Industry Retail and Grocery Stores
With the spray, stores can stock eggs for longer durations, reducing spoilage-related losses.
Food Processing Industries Industries using eggs as raw materials can ensure a consistent supply without frequent replenishments.
Impact on Egg Exports
The spray has the potential to transform the export market for eggs. Extended shelf life ensures that exported eggs meet international quality standards, opening new trade opportunities for India.
Comparison with Traditional Preservation Methods
Refrigeration vs. Egg Spray
Refrigeration requires energy and infrastructure, which is not always feasible in rural areas. The egg spray offers a cost-effective, energy-efficient alternative.
Cost-Effectiveness
The low-cost spray is especially beneficial for small-scale farmers who cannot afford expensive refrigeration systems.
How to Apply the Egg Spray at Home or Farm
Clean the eggs thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
Dry them completely to ensure proper adhesion of the spray.
Evenly spray the solution over the eggs, ensuring all sides are coated.
Allow the eggs to dry before storing them in a clean container.
Challenges and Limitations
Environmental Factors
Extreme temperatures and humidity may affect the effectiveness of the spray.
Need for Further Research
While highly effective, the spray’s long-term effects on eggshell quality and taste require further study.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
The spray is designed to be biodegradable and safe for the environment, making it a sustainable choice for modern farming practices.
Feedback from Farmers and Industry Experts
Farmers and retailers who have tested the spray report significant reductions in spoilage and improved profitability. Industry experts believe this innovation has the potential to revolutionize egg storage globally.
Future Innovations in Egg Preservation
CARI plans to further enhance the spray by incorporating additional features such as color-coded indicators to show the freshness of eggs.
Conclusion
CARI’s egg spray is a game-changer in egg preservation, offering an affordable and efficient solution to extend shelf life to 90 days. This innovation has far-reaching implications for farmers, retailers, and consumers, ensuring a steady supply of fresh eggs while reducing wastage.